Election Day November 7 Elections (Tuesday)

City of Miami General Municipal Election

City of Miami Beach General Election - Mayor and Commissioners

Hialeah City Commissioners Primary Election (No Candidates Responded)

Homestead General and Special Elections (No Candidates Responded)

Surfside Special Election (No Candidates Responded)

Run-Off Election Day November 21 (Tuesday)

Hialeah General Election

City of Miami Run-Off Election

City Miami Beach Run-Off Election

Early Voting Info (varies by election)

https://www.miamidade.gov/global/service.page?Mduid_service=ser1511962555914873

Get your Sample Ballot and Find Your Voting Location: https://www.miamidade.gov/global/service.page?Mduid_service=ser151187731708822

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Municipalities have the ability to significantly impact Biscayne Bay water quality through policy, infrastructure design and maintenance investments. This questionnaire seeks to learn each candidate’s understanding of the issues and challenges affecting Biscayne Bay and to discuss positions on policy, legislation, and the work that it will take to start her on a path to recovery.

The Biscayne Bay Marine Health Coalition wants to inform voters on who the "Biscayne Bay Friendly" candidates are (as well as encouraging people to vote) and will share all candidate answers via the email and social media communications channels of various Biscayne Bay-focused organizations.

NOTE: Candidate responses are presented exactly as submitted (copy/paste from a Google Form). We are not backing any candidates, nor are we making endorsements. This information is to allow VOTERS to make informed choices on "Biscayne Bay Friendly" Candidates.

Candidates from City of Hialeah, City of Homestead, Town of Surfside and State Representative District 118 DID NOT SUBMIT RESPONSES.

City of Miami General Municipal Election

DISTRICT 1 CANDIDATES THAT SUBMITTED RESPONSES: Mercedes 'Merci' Rodriguez

DISTRICT 1 Candidates THAT DID NOT SUBMIT RESPONSES: Alex Diaz de la Portilla, Miguel Angel Gabela, Francisco Pichel, Marvin Tapia

MERCEDES 'MERCI' RODRIGUEZ

Your campaign website: www.MerciforMiami.com

Feel free to share any video links, YouTube channel or other ways that people can hear directly from you:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFQmyPu3R64

1) Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office. 

I am a public servant. I offer a humanitarian approach to some of the concerns raised by the residents of District 1. I believed as a volunteer was enough towards making a change but it’s not enough. As a volunteer, I do not have the authority to execute real complying changes as District 1 requires.

Other candidates in this race say they will do and my response to their comment is what I have done.

I have dedicated my time to my career and to specific community projects with several organizations such as United Way, Jackson Public Health Trust, Miami River Commission, Miami-Dade County Baynanza Clean Up, City of Miami Fires Rescue Department CERT Program, Miami-Dade Cultural Affairs Council, County Planning Board, Bayfront Trust, Homeless Trust, City of Miami Planning Advisory Board, Susan G. Komen Foundation, Miami Zoo, CAA, YMCA, HIV/AID Partnership Board, etc. 

I have received multiple awards and recognitions for my contribution to this community. I have volunteered to give back to the community I consider my home. I was born and raised in Miami. It's my responsibility to care for my hometown. 

Most important all these experiences combined have given me the vision to deal with the serious problems in District 1 that need immediate attention. 

2) Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami. 

Biscayne Bay is a special place. It was my family past time growing up. I enjoyed fishing with my father. Every weekend we went to Key Biscayne at Crandon Park or Bill Baggs Park.

3) There are a lot of problems facing Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest issues, and what are you prepared to do about them?

The seaweed is a concern. Would like to see more beach lifeguards. Safety regulations for jet ski rentals enforced. Overall The County has a Resilience Department that is doing a fantastic job especially with the Biscayne Bay Task Force involvement. They have been engaged in studying the issues impacting our ecosystem and presenting solutions which are long term. 

4) Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

Education and awareness is the key. Biscayne Bay is a gem. It belongs to everyone. Miami -Dade County depends on it's tourist industry. We must protect our beaches for all our residents as well. Government needs to continue investing in maintaining our beaches clean and safe for us and future generations to come. Development projects "if" approved need to embrace our waterway needs. 

5) Stormwater is a major conveyance of pollutants from the streets into Biscayne Bay – and these pollutants include plastics and nutrients from organic material (leaves and grass clippings). What actions will you champion to ensure the water coming from our streets is clean enough to flow into the Bay?

Our South Florida waters are in danger due to nutrient pollution and old storm water pipes that often breaks and need replacement. The City of Miami District 1 streets needs serious repairs along the Miami River for example. 

Certainly there are concerns of water contamination. For example our Seaport is one of the biggest in the world. We have huge cruise ships docking at our terminals and we need to make sure they also protect our environment. Our economy depends on our tourists.

Many homes in the City of Miami have septic tank that need to be connected to our sewer system. The cost of keeping up with housing expenses places a burden on our residents to replace their septic tank.

6) How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

We need to have re-cycle bins along our beaches. We need to educate cannot repeat it enough. There is a ban already for styrofoam products at our beaches. There is a volunteer movement called Plastic Free 305 toward no use of plastic at our beaches. 

7) When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

Hosting such events as Baynanza Clean up. Having television programs talking about our environment in Miami-Dade County. Working together with our school system. Having our government leadership involved in bringing awareness to their constituents.

DISTRICT 2 CANDIDATES THAT SUBMITED RESPONSES: Sabina Covo, Damian Pardo, Alicia Kossick, Christi Tasker 

DISTRICT 2 CANDIDATES WHO DID NOT SUBMIT RESPONSES: Gabriela Ariana Chirinos, Michael Castro, Eddy V. Leal, James Torres

SABINA COVO

Your campaign website: https://sabinacovo.miami/

Feel free to share any video links, YouTube channel or other ways that people can hear directly from you:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFQmyPu3R64

1) Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office. 

District 2 has been my home for over twenty years. I have the privilege of raising my three children and owning a small business here. As a working mother, I understand firsthand the daily challenges that come with juggling work, family, and community involvement. While holding the office of District 2 Commissioner, I’ve been able to continue my passion for public service that initially grew from my experience as an investigative journalist. Over the last 6 months, I’ve advocated for affordable housing, environmental protections, and projects that have brought positive changes to the district and I believe my work is just getting started. I would be honored to have the opportunity to continue the fight for a future that benefits all residents. 

2) Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami. 

Similar to many others, experiencing and exploring Biscayne Bay is a tradition for my family and I. We spend countless hours out in Biscayne Bay as I love to paddle board and take my three kids out in the water. Biscayne Bay has also come to be known as an iconic water imagery around the world that defines our City, so investing in its health is critical for our future. Overall, it offers our community a strong economic and environmental engine that must be preserved and protected. Since taking office, I’ve kept my promise to put environmental issues at the forefront of my work. I co-sponsored legislation urging the County to purchase Bird Key for environmental preservation. By also allocating budget resources to protect our shoreline, my hope is that we will continue to enjoy our oceans for years to come.

3) There are a lot of problems facing Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest issues, and what are you prepared to do about them?

There is no doubt that Biscayne Bay has great challenges and the top issues facing include: septic tanks, plastic pollution, and storm-water runoff. For the septic-to-sewer challenges, when faced with disastrous flooding, I immediately partnered with the City Manager to provide a flooding action plan. This plan ensured that city-wide drain clearing to happen every year. Regarding plastic pollution, cities like Miami Beach have deployed smart plastic-free event policies as a first major step to minimize plastic pollution in the Bay. As Commissioner, I will continue the work with other municipalities to take on the issue of plastic-free events so we can truly see a major reduction in plastic pollution ending in our Bay. 

4) Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

Balancing growth and development while protecting natural resources is a complex challenge, but with a strategic and sustainable approach, it can be accomplished. We know other cities have balanced protecting our natural resources while also meeting the housing demands in our community. We know there are a number of leaders in the industry that are deploying resilient and environmental strategies when it comes to growing our housing stock. We need to tap these leaders to be at the forefront of the discussions on how we implement smart, environmentally sustainable, and responsible strategies so we balance both protecting our natural resources and meeting the housing demands of the day. A few of the approaches I’ve taken during my time in the office include setting aside resources for more green spaces, protecting critical habitats like Bird Key, investing in more trees within our district, and incorporating eco-friendly building practices. Within this line of thought, these plans also include investing money into key structures such as pumps and promoting the movement of water. 

5) Stormwater is a major conveyance of pollutants from the streets into Biscayne Bay – and these pollutants include plastics and nutrients from organic material (leaves and grass clippings). What actions will you champion to ensure the water coming from our streets is clean enough to flow into the Bay?

I’ve been a vocal advocate for infrastructure upgrades to address these issues. I’ve pushed for investment in our drainage and run-off management systems and advocated for frequent street clean-ups limiting the amount of in-organic debris flowing into our drains. I understand our city must do more to partner with the County and become part of a comprehensive plan as pollutants have no city boundaries or lines. 

6) How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

Miami Beach recently passed a plastic-free initiative and it’s time we do the same in Miami. We must work with private sector partners to follow suit and major events that take place near the water must be plastic-free to start curtailing the levels of plastic waste ending in Biscayne Bay.

7) When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

The best tool we have as elected officials is to lead by example. This is what I continue to stand by as Commissioner. When I launched the ECO Squad, this was an effort to improve public awareness and engagement around the importance of protecting our environment. My office has led volunteer community clean-ups across the district to reduce marine debris affecting our shoreline. Another example is doing an annual State of Our Bay event focused on attracting residents and private sector partners at a day event where we showcase the good, the challenges, and the opportunities around our environment and then host a clean-up along the Bay. This way everyone feels a part of the plan, programs, and solutions.

DAMIAN PARDO

Your campaign website: https://damianpardo.vote/

Feel free to share any video links, YouTube channel or other ways that people can hear directly from you:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFQmyPu3R64

1) Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office. 

​​I know that we can do better. For the last 35 years, I have worked hard, giving my money, time, skills, and passion to help improve my community. The City of Miami has reached a critical point where it needs new and proven leadership. Leadership that is free from the influence of special interests and is dedicated to serving residents’ everyday needs and speaking the truth on the dais to the corruption that is so evident.

As an activist, I have been advocating for social justice, equality, diversity, and inclusion in South Florida and beyond, with over 35 years of volunteering in efforts to unite communities, including founding SAVE–Safeguarding American Values for Everyone–in 1993 while serving as a two-term President of the largest AIDS Health Organization, CareResource (formerly known as Health Crisis Network). In 2015, I co-founded 4Ward Miami (and the Gay8 Festival), dedicated to lowering political polarization and uniting South Florida’s diverse communities. I served on the Miami Dade Equal Opportunity Board (12 years), the Board of Trustees of the Miami Foundation, the Celia Cruz Foundation, and various national and local non-profit boards. Currently, I serve on the Board of Vizcaya Museum & Gardens.

My professional journey started at Southeast Bank in its Management Training Program, after which I specialized in corporate lending for the cruise line industry. I later transitioned to private banking and trust. My career took me through various leadership roles in reputable institutions such as Gibraltar Private Bank, SunTrust, Merrill Lynch, and Morgan Stanley, and today I am a Regional Director at First Horizon. My experience starting two small businesses and as a certified financial planner in banking and wealth management have given me a comprehensive understanding of family planning, managing small businesses, and developing complex budgets and financial arrangements.

I attended St. Hugh School in Coconut Grove and graduated from Belen Jesuit Preparatory School in 1981, winning a National Forensics competition, I attended Georgetown University School of Foreign Service, rowed crew, and ultimately graduated from the University of Miami School of Business with a Master in Management. 

2) Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami. 

Biscayne Bay is not just a body of water near Miami—it's an ecosystem critical in our region and fragile at times. It is a symbol of the city's dynamic blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and economic vitality. For Miami residents and visitors alike, the Bay represents a space for recreation, inspiration, and connection with the environment, making it an indispensable aspect of life in this vibrant metropolitan area.

I have lived here my entire life and seen it change before my eyes. The city is at a critical point; if we don’t change course now, we will have more of the same. We must do better for all residents and our natural resources.

3) There are a lot of problems facing Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest issues, and what are you prepared to do about them?

The biggest issue facing our community is the undue influence of money from connected insiders and special interests, including developers at every level from permitting to zoning, which is filled with loopholes and exceptions - that destroy the character of our neighborhoods. In turn, areas like Biscayne Bay are negatively impacted. We cannot allow contaminated stormwater, sewer leaks, pollution, and debris from overdevelopment - (too much-paved area) and construction sites to continue to hurt one of our most treasured natural resources. 

I want to create a task force focused on climate and resiliency that connects all levels of government and prioritizes funding, action, and urgency. I am committed to doing everything I can to curtail the negative impacts of construction, population growth, and pollution on Biscayne Bay. We need to bring people and layers of government together, working toward the same goal while prioritizing immediate funding. 

4) Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

In the next 2-3 years, there are an estimated 5,000 more residents expected to move into the Biscayne neighborhoods. We must enforce Miami 21 and stop the upzonings and Special Area Plans. We must prioritize resident education and engagement and collaborate with all the condo associations, some already engaged in cleanups, to ensure they have the resources and information to advocate and educate residents about Biscayne Bay. . 

5) Stormwater is a major conveyance of pollutants from the streets into Biscayne Bay – and these pollutants include plastics and nutrients from organic material (leaves and grass clippings). What actions will you champion to ensure the water coming from our streets is clean enough to flow into the Bay?

I would support installing sediment filters, reducing impervious surfaces, using vegetative buffers, permeable pavements, biofiltration systems, trash racks and screens, and green infrastructure. I would also support aggressive resident education programs and city-wide awareness initiatives. 

I would also involve other local authorities, environmental agencies and groups, and residents in the planning and implementation of these initiatives. 

Recently, the city conducted a study of our stormwater drainage system. This was the first step toward finding a feasible solution. These results will help us mitigate the problem. I also will support increasing funding for more maintenance and upkeep of our streets and green spaces so that we can begin to control the pollution going into Biscayne Bay. 

6) How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

1. Reduce Single-Use Plastics: Avoid using single-use plastics like straws, bags, and utensils. Opt for reusable alternatives.

2. Proper Waste Disposal: Dispose of plastics in designated recycling bins. Make sure they are clean and dry before recycling.

3. Participate in Beach Cleanups: Join or organize beach cleanup events to remove plastics and litter from the shoreline.

4. Educate and Raise Awareness: Spread awareness about the impact of plastics on the environment and encourage others to take action.

5. Support Plastic-Free Initiatives: Support businesses and organizations that promote plastic-free alternatives and sustainable practices.

6. Use Natural Fiber Products: Choose products made from natural materials like cotton, bamboo, or jute instead of synthetic plastics.

7. Avoid Microplastics: Avoid using products that contain microplastics, such as some cosmetics and cleaning products.

8. Properly Dispose of Fishing Gear: Fishermen should properly dispose of or recycle old or damaged fishing gear to prevent it from ending up in the bay.

9. Advocate for Policies: Advocate for local policies and regulations that restrict or regulate the use and disposal of plastics.

10. Monitor Stormwater Drains: Ensure that stormwater drains are clear of debris to prevent plastics from flowing into the bay during rain.

Every small effort counts, and collectively, these actions can significantly reduce plastic pollution.

7) When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

We need to engage residents. Community events with an important component to help educate is key. Also, a broad resident educational campaign. One of my core issues is getting ‘back to the basics’ of serving residents. Improving our parks, fixing potholes, making sidewalks safe for transit, alleviating traffic congestion, and helping residents with complicated processes like permitting and eliminating nuisance fees are all also small steps toward a bigger goal of engaged residents who are proud of where they live and feel empowered to be vocal when they see things that are not working in favor of the good of the community.

ALICIA KOSSCIK

Your campaign website: @kossick4commisioner 

Feel free to share any video links, YouTube channel or other ways that people can hear directly from you: Instagram @kossick4commissioner and @polishedcoconut

1) Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office. 

I believe in representing all the citizens of Miami with service, integrity and courage. 

2) Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami. 

The interrelationship between the built city and the environment needs to be reconciled. The relationship the citizens have towards the bay also needs to be reconciled. More accountability, protection and future forward advocacy from the City and citizens towards the bay. Miami 21 is a form based code guided by tenets of New Urbanism and Smart Growth principles, we need the same plan for our waters, under water life, and coastal environments.

3) There are a lot of problems facing Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest issues, and what are you prepared to do about them?

Public Access , Water and Sediment Quality and coastal Construction and Habitat Loss. I will do anything 

4) Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

Increasing population pressure, pollution and its effect on climate change have left the Bay in shambles. I support a combination of Green/nature based solutions and Grey solutions -- government infrastructure projects to collaborate with the threatened ecosystem. My vision is to bring the developers in D2 and really all of Miami into a mindful and sustainable city plan so there is a coordinated effort with input from all of the related constituents. Similar to the way the Underline project has been conceived and managed with collaboration among many parties.

5) Stormwater is a major conveyance of pollutants from the streets into Biscayne Bay – and these pollutants include plastics and nutrients from organic material (leaves and grass clippings). What actions will you champion to ensure the water coming from our streets is clean enough to flow into the Bay?

I will raise the standards and practices of our city sanitation and recycling programs and look to building bridges with private sector innovative solutions. The city is challenged by existing infrastructure, limited space, and limited budgets. Day I this would be the first thing I will tackle on the job. Without a healthy bay and environment, we will no longer be Miami.

6) How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

We enforce reduction of single use plastics, challenge the community to be low or zero waste, and foster a culture of leave-no-trace engagement with the bay. Create a public service campaign to encourage environmental stewardship so citizens make better decisions about plastics, waste and environmental deterioration. The City doesnt have the money nor coordination to change the mindset of an entire City so we need to create awareness, pride and responsibility with our citizens through education, outreach and digital public service campaign. Programs like 1,000 EYES on the Bay are great examples of citizen watch groups that can help their friends and neighbors make good decisions about plastics and their disposal.

7) When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

Create public service campaign to ditch single-use plastics, challenge oneself to be low or zero waste, and get involved with environmental organizations.

Christi Tasker

Your campaign website: https://christi4miami.com

Feel free to share any video links, YouTube channel or other ways that people can hear directly from you: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDd1OOjJWOBfKJhfcN_NVaw

1) Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office. 

Miami is almost bankrupt and our basic services are not being delivered due to corruption and blatant oversights. I have experience with dealing with multiple government agencies in my consultancy business and have worked out common sense economical and environmental solutions for some of the most difficult problems worldwide.

2) Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami. 

I live on Biscayne Bay and I consider the Bay our gateway to the rest of the world. It's critical we protect the environment beneath the water's surface, the water itself and secure the bay for border protection and protection for wildlife, coral, and water. 

3) There are a lot of problems facing Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest issues, and what are you prepared to do about them?

Taking responsibility for clean islands, developer oversight, lack of staff and equipment, and changing local and state legislation is critical to immediately preserve our Bay. 

First we must start with what we take immediate action of getting a staff member on each island who can ensure trash is not left on the islands to begin with. 

Allowing stormwater drainage and developers washing concrete and debris into our City drains is a major issue that could be immediately resolved with fines and holding our building department and police departments accountable. I plan to better educate police and the building department so that either department could fine and ticket the developers for failure to comply with the city charter and Florida Statues. Currently police say it's the buidling compliance issue, whereas the police are the ones hired by developers to oversee the projects. Police simply need the education of what to look for, what to write tickets for when they see actions occurring, and the power to fine the developers paying them as off-duty officers. The fines will create missed revenue opportunities and stop the issue to begin with.

Dredging should not be permitted to allow larger cruise ships and barges in our Bay. We know the extent of coral damage, which causes environmental havoc and climate issues. Why do we need larger boats when the Mayor's C-40 plan calls for each person to be allowed 3 garments per year (including your socks and underwear), no meat, and no dairy. I would think we would have fewer items entering our port with these constraints so the dredging is contradictory to the climate change battle they claim to combat.

4) Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

Sadly, most of our government is corrupt so we must first vote out any established politicians so that we can develop a planning and zoning plan that does not put developers and special interests first. We should be putting citizen's safety and our environment first. 

Most of our police and fire safety calls and issues revolve around tourism and Air Bnb properties. This is because many of the buildings are no longer full-time residents with resident occupants. In 2020, many of our residential properties were purchased by investors, not residents who care. Air Bnbs can be balanced with increased short-term rental taxes to keep homestead exempted property taxes lower. 

In turn, when we have residents who care, we have voters who care about our environment and want to protect our natural resources. Without engaged voters who can see through the smoke and mirror politics and connections to big developers, Miami citizens will continue to lose.

5) Stormwater is a major conveyance of pollutants from the streets into Biscayne Bay – and these pollutants include plastics and nutrients from organic material (leaves and grass clippings). What actions will you champion to ensure the water coming from our streets is clean enough to flow into the Bay?

I will ensure that all drains are immediately pumped, and the proper storm drain screens are applied. Secondly, I have a plan for daily street sweepers because when screens are applied over drains, there will be a lot of trash that normally enters the storm drains on the side of the streets. We also need more police officers who can write tickets for people who discard trash directly out their car windows onto the streets. And I have allocated funding for the proper number of trash cans in parks. Currently, we are short of basic trash receptacles. 

6) How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

I plan to immediately add drain screens to keep plastics from the street from entering the drains. There is a HUGE issue with parks lacking waste receptacles or they are not picked up before the trash is overflowing. When it overflows, it blows directly into the bay. Therefore I will add additional waste receptacles in parks and pick up the receptacles more often. 

7) When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

I am an exceptional communicator, and I enjoy connecting people with each other and for a cause. I'm very hands-on and involved. My children are grown, so it allows me time to plan community events at night or on weekends to be directly engaged with the community to make them aware of the problems we all need to watch out for with a clear, truthful explanation of what is happening in the local government. I think tours of the Bay such as the Biscayne Bay Coalition Tour, are critical solutions for our community leaders to attend and carry the message back to their HOAs and neighborhoods. 

DISTRICT 4 CANDIDATES THAT SUBMITED RESPONSES: Andres "Andy" Vallina

DISTRICT 4 CANDIDATES WHO DID NOT SUBMIT RESPONSES: Manuel (Manolo) E. Reyes

ANDRES "ANDY" VALLINA

Your campaign website: www.vallinaformiami.com

Feel free to share any video links, YouTube channel or other ways that people can hear directly from you:

FB, IG @vallinaformiami, IG: Florida_wildlife_kids

1) Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office. 

I was born in Miami in '64, 2 years early my parents immigrated from Cuba's Communist's Regime. Move to current residence in Flagami at the age of 6. Once I moved back from Atlanta I tried working with my local representatives including commissioner where it got me no where but by engaging different departments I have been able to notice loop holes, lack of follow up, and communication between city and county. i want to serve my community and I am confident that I will be able to take it further, with my experience in consulting business in stream lining areas that are not efficient or can use technology to increase efficiency and save money which can be applied in other areas.

2) Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami. 

Being an avid boater and scuba diver, I have seen the Bay deteriorate from what it was when I was young to where it is now. I have seen areas that where thriving with coral and fish now just have algae and no life. It means the world to me and my kids that where raised on the water.

3) There are a lot of problems facing Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest issues, and what are you prepared to do about them?

Polution, lack of responsiblity, lack of law enforcement. Work with groups and officials to apply solutions

4) Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

Impact fees should be used to help conserve our natural resources and we should not give up green spaces for developement 

5) Stormwater is a major conveyance of pollutants from the streets into Biscayne Bay – and these pollutants include plastics and nutrients from organic material (leaves and grass clippings). What actions will you champion to ensure the water coming from our streets is clean enough to flow into the Bay?

There are many companies with good ideas and solutions, I would work with them to apply as much as we can to the problem.

6) How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

Start by banning them on beaches, snack areas, and policing our waters for people polluting our waters.

7) When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

I believe different areas have different issues but groups can be formed to represent different areas and meet to come up with solutions together.

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Miami Beach General Election - Mayor and Commissioners

MAYORAL CANDIDATES THAT RESPONDED (all of them): Mike Grieco, Bill Roedy, Michael Gongora, Steven Meiner

MIKE GRIECO

Your campaign website: mikegrieco.vote

Feel free to share any video links, YouTube channel or other ways that people can hear directly from you: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChSlcBqXPGV_-RHTxjgkFxg

1) Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office. 

As the father of a teenager and a former gangs prosecutor, City Commissioner and State Representative, I am perfectly positioned to take on the awesome responsibilities as Miami Beach Mayor. I have been living here in Miami Beach full-time since the late 90s and was active in my neighborhood association for years before successfully running for local office in 2013. 

2) Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami. 

As someone who grew up on the water and chose to live adjacent to it, I am always saddened when I get the no-contact orders or swim advisories, almost all of which are the product of people and their inability to protect the bay, ocean, creeks and canals. People move here to be close to the water. People vacation here for the same reasons. And now, only people can fix the mess they have created and ensure that conditions in our Bay improve moving forward.

3) There are a lot of problems facing Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest issues, and what are you prepared to do about them?

1) Sewage leaks, both the slow ones and the bursting pipes we have (some as recent as twice this summer in Miami Beach). Infrastructure has always been a priority for me and that will continue when I'm Mayor. 

2) Floatables. The plastics that continue to simply destroy the entire ecosystem. I have attacked this issue for years, ranging from sponsoring the only-still-existing municipal polystyrene (styrofoam) ban in Florida to eliminating to-go cups in Miami Beach's entertainment district that would previously end up in our drainage system and waterways, I have always been committed to stopping plastics at their source. I am committed to further enhancing the city's filtration system to prevent even more trash from ending up in our Bay.

3) Decrease in sea grass. Obviously this is a tougher issue to tackle by just one city, but Miami Beach has seen a decrease of 77% to almost 90% of sea grass in our three adjacent basins in Biscayne Bay. Solutions to restore what we have lost over the last 10-20 years are moving forward at the State and County levels, which is great, but our city needs to do its part by not making the situation worse. We need to get focused on the multi-year no contact order in North Beach and make sure that all of our leaking infrastructure is corrected.

4) Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

Upgrading our infrastructure in anticipation of future growth and sea level rise instead of simply responding to prior growth and flooding. Ensuring that both the bay and our drinking water quality is at more than just an "acceptable" level. It needs to be Grade A, nothing less.

5) Stormwater is a major conveyance of pollutants from the streets into Biscayne Bay – and these pollutants include plastics and nutrients from organic material (leaves and grass clippings). What actions will you champion to ensure the water coming from our streets is clean enough to flow into the Bay?

(apologies for some redundancy) I have attacked this issue for years, ranging from sponsoring the only-still-existing municipal polystyrene (styrofoam) ban in Florida to eliminating to-go cups in Miami Beach's entertainment district that would previously end up in our drainage system and waterways, I have always been committed to stopping plastics at their source. I am committed to further enhancing the city's filtration system to prevent even more trash from ending up in our Bay. Furthermore, because of the speed in which Miami Beach removes standing flood water from the streets and adjacent properties (due to the work we did when I was a Commissioner), there is less time for harmful organic nutrients, pet waste, pesticides and fluids from the streets to get soaked up and/or washed out to the bay.

6) How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

Well since I filed, multiple times, bills repealing Florida's current preemption on plastics bans I would love to see that law change, but it won't. At least my Miami Beach polystyrene ban is still in effect despite the statewide preemption that stopped all other cities from doing it. I think we can legally incentivize fast-tracking permitting and reducing/waiving fees for businesses that pledge to lower or eliminate single-use plastics. Fines and enforcement are usually a losing battle, like playing whack-a-mole. Need to stop it at the source not the end user.

7) When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

Obviously visible beach and shoreline clean ups are great, but usually those events attract folks who are active in environmental protection or at least inclined to be. We need to be reaching out to the private sector more, chambers of commerce and businesses, as not only are they producing a great deal of the problem, but they are not typically the ones advocating or getting involved. Obviously we need to continue efforts with our schools as well, get them young.

BILL ROEDY

Your campaign website: https://www.billroedyformayor.com/

Feel free to share any video links, YouTube channel or other ways that people can hear directly from you:

https://www.youtube.com/@BillRoedy

1) Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office. 

I am running for Mayor because this city deserves action with integrity to improve the quality of life of my co-residents. A resilient environment is fundamental to this. Without addressing climate change, managing heat waves, preparing for hurricanes, and confronting sea level rise, we will never improve the quality for the majority of people in our barrier island. It is necessary for us to start to view our needs and wants from an environmental perspective that acknowledges that our society is an integral part of a much larger natural system.

2) Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami. 

Biscayne Bay is the lifeblood of this region. Industrial and commercial activity, coupled with overdevelopment on its shores, have severely degraded the ecosystem. We must prioritize its restoration. Without a healthy bay, clean water, and a thriving marine life, the possibility of a healthy life for humans is untenable.

3) There are a lot of problems facing Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest issues, and what are you prepared to do about them?

While Miami Dade county, in collaboration with the Army Corps of Engineers and other federal and state agencies, is committed to improving the health of this body of water and mitigating the coastal impact of sea level rise, Miami Beach can strengthen its contribution to these efforts in numerous ways.

- Repairing key infrastructure: The water and sewage infrastructure in our city is outdated and inadequate. Our residents experience frequent main breaks and live with chronically polluted canals. These hazards not only affect us but also impact our neighboring municipalities and the larger bay area. Addressing this issue needs to be our top priority. Until now, the City of Miami Beach has only achieved limited success in securing stage and federal grants to this issue. As Mayor, I am committed to taking action, which includes securing funding. We need to boost our grant writing department as well as lobbying capabilities both in Washington and Tallahassee. Additionally, it is crucial that we maintain open communication with our neighbors, such as North Bay Village. 

- Coastal restoration: Replanting mangroves and sea grapes along our shores is crucial to mitigate the effects of storms and flooding, capture debris that would otherwise stay on the bay, and reduce coastal erosion. Miami Beach has several locations that require attention –the prominent tower in Park View Island- where severe ground erosion poses potential safety risks in the future – and another affected area was the Champlain Towers.

- Additionally, dune restoration and maintenance are also high priorities. All too often dunes are flattened to enhance home owners' views. While the desire is understandable, the priority must go toward our collective welfare and survival.

- Regarding plastic bags, we can follow the example of other cities to encourage the use of better quality bags that are reusable and will not degrade into micro-plastics.

- Green Building: – Put measures in place to encourage green building and prevent the spilling of construction debris into the water. 

Although the state has temporarily preempted the private use of chemical fertilizers in yards and gardens during the summer., there is still a risk of them reaching the bay. Miami Beach has an existing ordinance that has increased awareness. Even if we are prohibited from enforcing it in the future, we will intensify our efforts to promote the message through public service campaigns.

4) Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

Thousands are moving to Florida but at the same time Miami Dade County is losing population, and so is Miami Beach. Miami Beach’s challenge is not so much the influx of permanent residents whom we can educate in resilient living. The challenge lies in the accelerated construction and overdevelopment, and the massive amount of visitors that we receive during the high impact periods. 

Regarding the construction of new buildings, we need to update our building codes in order to encourage green and low-carbon emitting buildings. Additionally we need to minimize demolitions, which are highly polluting, and instead encourage a refurbish and reuse model.

Past administrations have encouraged the building of transient use- buildings (short term rentals and micro-units). This is our challenge: to ensure that tourists and visitors are respectful of our environment during the few days or weeks that they are on our shores. Public service campaigns and working with hotels to ensure that the messages reach visitors will be key. Requiring that corporate short term rentals have staff on site will be another policy to enforce.

5) Stormwater is a major conveyance of pollutants from the streets into Biscayne Bay – and these pollutants include plastics and nutrients from organic material (leaves and grass clippings). What actions will you champion to ensure the water coming from our streets is clean enough to flow into the Bay?

Rising seawalls, both public and private, on bay side

Fixing and cleaning ParkView island canal 

Public service campaigns to minimize the use of chemical fertilizers

Updating drains, filters, and related infrastructure

6) How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

Miami Beach may not be able to regulate the vessels that roam the Bay but it can:

- Discourage the use of single-use plastics

- Increase the frequency and thoroughness of street and park cleaning along the waterways.

- Spearhead public service campaigns. We need to invest in our messaging to reach every person with both reason and emotion. Keeping the Bay clean is something that the government needs to act on and promote, but ultimately, all of us, every single individual, needs to do our part.

7) When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

We need a government that encompasses the needs and priorities of all residents and solicits their input. 

As a Mayor committed to a government that is transparent, accessible and democratic, I will promote the formation of neighborhood organizations in areas of the city that are currently underrepresented, ensuring that existing and new associations are truly representative of the residents in their community. 

City boards and committees need to be revitalized with members that have the pulse of their neighborhood rather than representing special interests. 

As Mayor, I will commit to holding periodic town hall meetings to hear residents' concerns.

Every capital improvement project, related to parks, public spaces, rights of way, needs to develop in dialogue with affected residents. Projects in neighborhoods that emerge from the residents, with regards to, for instance, local activities, need to be encouraged. 

We need to change the culture of government and open the doors and encourage a participatory government and process that is available and accessible to all. 

MICHAEL GONGORA

Your campaign website: https://www.michaelgongora.com/

Feel free to share any video links, YouTube channel or other ways that people can hear directly from you:

https://www.facebook.com/michaelcgongoraa

1) Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office. 

I love Miami Beach. I grew up in Miami-Dade County and have been living in Miami Beach since 1992. I have years of experience in government, management, and public administration that make me the best candidate for Mayor. 

First and foremost, my top priority is the safety of Miami Beach residents. I'm committed to enhancing public safety by advocating for a stronger policing plan, increasing police visibility, and allocating a budget to hire more officers, which is why I am the only candidate endorsed by the Miami Beach Fraternal Order of Police. I also support the use of technology like video cameras and a Real-Time Crime Center to make our city safer. I won't just talk about it; I'll ensure criminals are held accountable and eliminate any laxity in our safety measures.

Quality of life matters greatly to me. I aim to reduce traffic congestion by focusing on street improvements and traffic light calibration. I believe in clean streets and sidewalks – a dirty city is simply unacceptable. I also understand the importance of preserving our city's history while allowing responsible development that doesn't worsen traffic. I oppose out-of-scale buildings that strain our infrastructure and want to promote arts and culture as Miami Beach's unique brand.

Sustainability and resiliency are critical for our city's future. I'm committed to maintaining our Stormwater Master Plan to keep the city dry and advancing our infrastructure responsibly, without jeopardizing private properties. I envision a modern city infrastructure ready for the challenges ahead. I also have a dedicated passion for the environment. I created the City of Miami Beach Sustainability Committee and also previously served as the Chair of the Environmental Coalition of Miami Beach (ECOMB) where I focused on keeping our beaches clean. During my last year on the Commission, I also sponsored the Fertilizer Ordinance to keep our waters clean.

My comprehensive approach to public safety, commitment to improving quality of life, and dedication to sustainability and resiliency make me the ideal candidate for Miami Beach Mayor. I believe in practical solutions and accountability, and I'm ready to lead our city toward a brighter future.

2) Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami. 

Biscayne Bay holds significant importance both to me as a resident of Miami Beach, a former elected official, and as a candidate for Mayor. It is one of the reasons I chose to live in Miami Beach with its unique marine life and habitats.

For the City of Miami Beach, Biscayne Bay is of great importance as well. It serves as a natural boundary and a defining feature of the city’s landscape. The bay offers opportunities for recreation, tourism, and commerce, contributing to the city’s vibrant culture and economy. Additionally, it’s vital for environmental sustainability and plays a crucial role in protecting against coastal erosion and storm surge.

Overall, Biscayne Bay is not just a geographic landmark but also a key component of the identity and vitality of Miami Beach.

3) There are a lot of problems facing Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest issues, and what are you prepared to do about them?

Water quality degradation, habitat loss, pollution, sea-level rise, and overfishing are all major issues facing Biscayne Bay. Addressing these issues will require collaborative efforts from government agencies, environmental organizations, and local communities to implement policies, restoration projects, and conservation initiatives to protect and restore the bay’s ecosystem and water quality.

As your Mayor, I intend to work together with all governmental agencies to improve the quality of the water with efforts to reduce pollution from stormwater runoff, sewage, and agricultural runoff. This includes implementing stricter regulations on pollutant discharge, upgrading wastewater treatment facilities, and promoting best management practices for agriculture.

I will also like to focus on habitat restoration. I will look at tackling restoration projects aimed at enhancing seagrass beds, mangrove forests, and coral reefs that will help improve biodiversity and the overall health of the bay. I will also help with the designation of marine protected areas (MPAs) within Biscayne Bay National Park to conserve fish and coral populations and preserve critical habitats.

My administration will support public awareness campaigns and educational programs to inform residents and visitors about the importance of protecting the bay and reducing their environmental impact. I also sponsored a plastic straw ban and will continue advocating against the use of plastics and against polluting our beaches.

Our administration will also support sea-level rise adaptation initiatives including raising infrastructure, improving stormwater management, and researching long-term solutions.

We will also help implement and enforce fishing regulations to prevent overfishing and protect the bay's fish populations.

4) Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

Balancing growth and development with the protection of natural resources is a complex challenge for Miami Beach. As your Mayor, I will work on smart urban planning, stricter environmental regulations, incentives for sustainable development, land conservation, transportation planning, water management, climate adaptation, and public education.

Balancing growth and environmental protection is an ongoing process that requires collaboration among government agencies, developers, environmental organizations, and the community. It also necessitates a commitment to sustainability and a willingness to adapt strategies as the population continues to grow. I will oppose out of scale development and require responsible development that takes into account our environment and our infrastructure.

5) Stormwater is a major conveyance of pollutants from the streets into Biscayne Bay – and these pollutants include plastics and nutrients from organic material (leaves and grass clippings). What actions will you champion to ensure the water coming from our streets is clean enough to flow into the Bay?

To ensure cleaner stormwater flowing into Biscayne Bay, I will champion initiatives to improve stormwater management systems, public education, stricter environmental regulations, regular monitoring, sustainable infrastructure, and restoration and cleanup initiatives.

We must look at ways to better protect the bay. One initiative I spearheaded is the Fertilizer Ordinance to prevent harmful fertilizers from polluting our waters. We must also ensure that waters are treated and cleaned before they are safely pumped into the bay.

6) How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

To keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay, I will work to reduce single-use plastics, improve waste management systems, support public education campaigns, support filtration systems and monitoring, support recycling and collaboration, strengthen regulations, and have my administration spearhead regular cleanup efforts. I also supported the plastic straw ban which is now law in the City of Miami Beach. Further, I supported efforts to stop plastic use when we recently renewed our city contract with our beverage provider.

7) When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

Engaging the public (both residents and visitors) in environmental stewardship is essential for ensuring Miami Beach remains one of the best places in the country to live, work, and visit. My administration will encourage the public to be part of the solution by supporting education and awareness efforts, engaging with the community in open forums, collaborating with business leaders, schools and environmental organizations, engaging in digital media campaigns, and by planning for the future of long-term resiliency and sustainability. 

I have a solid social media presence to discuss issues and will also encourage public Zoom meetings and live charettes to keep these decisions in the forefront.

I hope that by starting to engage more in these areas, we will foster a sense of ownership and community pride in the process.

STEVEN MEINER 

Your campaign website: www.Stevenmeiner.com 

Feel free to share any video links, YouTube channel or other ways that people can hear directly from you.

1) Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office. 

Why am I am running for Mayor now? It's all about refocusing our priorities and getting back to the basics. I will lead as I have governed, with a sense of urgency to provide safe, clean, quiet neighborhoods. All too often our focus and City resources are unnecessarily diverted. This must change to focus every day on our residents’ quality of life.

2) Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami Beach. 

We are so fortunate to be surrounded by water in Miami Beach and preserving and protecting beautiful Biscayne Bay is vital to our health, quality of life and economy. The bay's clear waters, marine life, and picturesque coastline embody the very essence of Miami Beach's beauty and vitality.

For the City of Miami Beach, Biscayne Bay is our lifeblood. It's where our residents and visitors come to relax, explore, and connect with nature. Beyond its recreational and economic significance, the bay is our ecological guardian, protecting us from storms and sea-level rise. We owe it to ourselves and future generations to cherish, protect, and preserve this iconic part of our Miami Beach community.

3) There are a lot of problems facing Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest issues, and what are you prepared to do about them?

Miami Beach faces critical challenges in ensuring the health of Biscayne Bay. Among the most pressing issues are water quality deterioration, and habitat degradation. I am fully committed to tackling stormwater problems head-on working alongside all our Miami-Dade partners. I currently have a legislative initiative to address our infrastructure issues consistent with the Biscayne Bay Task Force’s Report.

We will lead the charge in implementing stringent stormwater management practices to keep our streets clean and free from pollutants that harm the bay. We'll invest in local habitat restoration projects, focusing on the unique ecosystems that make Miami Beach and Biscayne Bay special. Additionally, I'll champion sustainable development that respects our environment while accommodating growth. Our city will continue to take bold actions to fortify our coastline, and protect the bay for the long term.

4) Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

Balancing growth and environmental preservation is a paramount concern for Miami Beach. We recognize the need for responsible development that enhances our community without compromising our natural resources. To achieve this, we will prioritize smart strategies that emphasize sustainability, resilient design, and green infrastructure. We'll engage with developers, residents, and experts to ensure that new projects align with our unique Miami Beach character while safeguarding Biscayne Bay for future generations.

5) Stormwater is a major conveyance of pollutants from the streets into Biscayne Bay – and these pollutants include plastics and nutrients from organic material (leaves and grass clippings). What actions will you champion to ensure the water coming from our streets is clean enough to flow into the Bay?

Our commitment to cleaner streets and stormwater management is unwavering. Miami Beach will spearhead comprehensive efforts to minimize pollutants entering Biscayne Bay. This includes implementing advanced filtration systems, expanding green infrastructure, and enforcing strict regulations on plastic waste and organic material disposal. Through education and community engagement, we'll encourage residents and businesses to play an active role in preventing stormwater pollution and protecting the bay's water quality.

6) How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

Our city has taken a proactive stance in the fight against plastic pollution with our Plastic Free Miami Beach campaign, however there is so much more to do. We will continue to enact local ordinances to reduce single-use plastics, promote recycling and educate on composting and incentivize businesses to adopt eco-friendly practices. Through public awareness campaigns and appropriate signage, we can educate residents and visitors on the importance of responsible plastic use and disposal. By partnering with reputable local organizations, we'll continue to help organize cleanup initiatives to remove existing plastic waste from our shores and waterways, ensuring a cleaner, plastic-free Biscayne Bay. Educating our residents and visitors is key -- people do better when they know better.

7) When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

Engaging our residents in environmental stewardship is at the core of our Miami Beach community spirit. We'll foster a sense of ownership and responsibility by involving residents in local conservation efforts, organizing volunteer programs, and hosting community events focused on environmental education and action. We'll provide resources and incentives for sustainable living and empower our residents to be champions of change. Together, we'll create a shared vision of a thriving, sustainable 305 community that everyone can enjoy.

GROUP 4 CANDIDATES THAT RESPONDED: Tanya Katzoff Bhatt

GROUP 4 CANDIDATES WHO DID NOT SUBMIT RESPONSES: Andres Asion

TANYA KATZOFF BHATT

Your campaign website: www.tanyaformiamibeach.com

Feel free to share any video links, YouTube channel or other ways that people can hear directly from you:

- This is the MBTV candidate video the city provides for all candidates; it will be finalized with the appropriate chyron and distributed widely, but until then, you can see it at this link:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eXWk9trtjEgR2CWmGENsV-kVn4RtCGF-/view?usp=sharing

- This is a piece done by Louis Aguirre for his "Don't Trash Our Treasure" series: https://bit.ly/3EVPAeP

- This is a series from Vox Media and Audible Originals, Hell or High Water; this episode deals specifically with Biscayne Bay water quality issues: https://adbl.co/3LJhm1U

- This is this week's Yes2Arts forum hosted at the New World Symphony and moderated by WLRN's Tom Hudson: https://bit.ly/3tbMq43

1) Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office. 

I am a tenacious advocate for residents’ rights, a results-oriented community leader and a proven consensus-builder who will never stop working to improve our city. A 20-year resident of Miami Beach, my long-standing record of service includes leadership roles as President of Miami Beach United, Vice Chair of the City of Miami Beach Planning Board, and a Board Member of the Miami Design Preservation League. 

I want to bring my values, energy, and skill set to bear on the most pressing issues we face. Integrity, independence, civility, and thoughtful problem-solving will anchor and define my role on the Commission, where I’ll work diligently to ensure Miami Beach remains one of the most vibrant and unique cities in America. My priorities include promoting the right resiliency measures for each neighborhood; upgrading our aging infrastructure and healing our natural environment; striking the balance between historic preservation and appropriate contextual growth; keeping our city safe and welcoming; and finding commonsense solutions to end gridlock both on our streets and in our government.

At City Hall, it just feels like there aren’t enough "grownups in the room" to make the hard decisions to effectuate change. There's too much reactionary posturing and not enough proactive strategy about where we want to be and how we want to get there, in a manner which is beneficial for everyone in our community. I'm running to change that. You can count on me to do the work, ask the hard questions, say what I mean, mean what I say, and conduct myself accordingly.

Beyond my experience with Miami Beach United, the Planning Board and the Design Preservation League, I am a branding and marketing professional who spent six years running a global division of Converse. Growing up overseas in South America and Europe taught me that there are many approaches to finding positive outcomes, a perspective that will favorably inform how I approach my job representing us all.

A current North Beach resident, and a former resident of Mid-Beach’s Bayshore neighborhood, I moved to Miami Beach in 2003 seeking a diverse and warm community with world-class cultural offerings in a stunning waterfront setting in which to raise her family. I am a graduate of Brown University, an unlikely endurance athlete, a dog rescuer, and multilingual.

Together with you, I want to build a #MiamiBeachForAllOfUs.

2) Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami. 

I have always loved the water; it’s one of the big reasons I chose to move here 20 years ago to a house a half-mile walk to the ocean. Seven years ago I had the opportunity to move to my dream home, a townhouse on a canal just off the Intercoastal on Park View Island. Friends told me being on the water changes everything; I didn’t know just how right they were! Even on the worst day (both external weather or life circumstances) being a few feet above lapping waves and flourishing sea life was a game changer. From 2016 to March of 2020, that remained the case. Then there was a contractor-ruptured sewer line that affected the entire city with a no-contact water advisory; it was cleared everywhere but PVI after several days. We waited, and waited, and finally I started engaging with the City on what was going on. To say that I got a runaround is an understatement…and fast forward to today, the city has only JUST finally started getting sort of serious about addressing the issue of the still-extant no-contact water advisory surrounding PVI, thanks to my advocacy, the picking up of the mantle of advocacy by my neighbor and fellow PVI resident Omar Jimenez (and others), and the Blue Water Task Force’s regular testing/reporting wildly unacceptable bacteria levels. 

This is not a story about this single affected area…this is a story of how much pollution and lack of care there is that may go unattended. Residents all over the city call in concerns about oil slicks, sediment clouds, illegal dumping, etc. What would we be facing if our residents didn’t care enough to make these reports? 

We are a seven-mile stretch of sand nestled between the Atlantic ocean and Biscayne Bay. They both drive our character of place, and our significant tourism revenue, and are the reason why so many of us choose to call this city our home. The health of Biscayne Bay is critical to maintaining healthy levels of sea grass and the resulting ecosphere, including but not limited to manatees, which used to visit me at my home, and coral reefs which are a barometer of our waters’ health (of which there are some of the most spectacular just of Miami Beach near Government cut – and yes, I know, that’s not the Bay!).

3) There are a lot of problems facing Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest issues, and what are you prepared to do about them?

Pollution from a variety of causes, including but not limited to construction waste getting dumped unfiltered into the Bay, trash getting thrown or blown into the water, overuse of inappropriate fertilizers, and human/animal bacteria leaching into the water are all serious issues.

• Construction sites which do not adhere to best practices should be fined significantly, and pop inspections should happen regularly, not just when residents report issues.

• Sewer lines and attendant infrastructure should be routinely evaluated for leaks and other issues to recognize potential issues proactively, rather than trying to address them after the fact, when the damage has already been done.

• Any and all marinas, whether on public property or at private condos, must have waste disposal and recycling bins maintained in a clean and functional manner, and boaters must be informed that the requirement is for them to return to dock with their waste to be disposed of properly.

• Education campaigns to residents about pet waste and fertilizer use must be stepped up to ensure maximum awareness of the issues and effects on the Bay.

4) Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

Miami Beach is a fragile barrier island that cannot sustain unlimited development; our infrastructure is already at the breaking point. And yet, our commission seems more interested in raising our skyline than in fixing our sewer lines. I’m not against thoughtful development proposed to meet specific needs in our community, but things are out of hand. Our City Commission acts as a glorified zoning board trying to fit square pegs into round holes. We shouldn’t be distracted by the latest for-profit development scheme – we should be assessing holistically what we need and want in our city, and then working with partners who want to help make that happen in the most ecologically sustainable way possible. Unlimited growth is not appropriate here, and with the encroachments from Tallahassee preempting local jurisdiction to make our own best decisions, we need to elect leaders who will hold the line.

5) Stormwater is a major conveyance of pollutants from the streets into Biscayne Bay – and these pollutants include plastics and nutrients from organic material (leaves and grass clippings). What actions will you champion to ensure the water coming from our streets is clean enough to flow into the Bay?

In addition to the steps mentioned in the answer to question 3, I would also propose the following:

• Ensure our stormwater infrastructure is maintained more often than every several years and more frequent cleaning of catch basins.

• A full sweep (no pun intended) of our city needs to happen ASAP to evaluate the state of the pipes and related infrastructure, as a prior mayor gave direction to not maintain certain stormwater areas in order to bolster his case for raising streets in certain areas of the city.

• Upgrade the frequency of emptying, and quality of, our public trash baskets so they don’t leak, let items fly out of them, and are never overflowing due to too-infrequent waste collection.

• Incentivize existing and new single family homes to maintain or re-install green swales .

• Look to other countries’ solutions on how to build catchbasins into existing infrastructure like projects in the Netherlands do

6) How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

In addition to the steps outlined above, we need to elevate the messaging about the permanence of plastics ESPCIALLY (but not exclusively) along our waterways; I remember learning, as a kid, about how the plastic rings holding 6-packs together can do irreparable harm, and have cut them apart ever since! We need the same kind of unified messaging across our county. Also, we need to further educate and incentivize CMB businesses about/to use renewable /recyclable disposables, like aluminum, paper, and bamboo, rather than plastics and Styrofoam. Special events permits should not be granted UNLESS they agree to use green drink/serving ware, and steep fines should be assessed if they do not abide by their contracts.

7) When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

Education and engagement are critical. We need to ensure that residents of all ages feel a sense of pride and ownership, of our waterways so that they can be good stewards, and can share the message with their circles of influence. We can institute a local CMB or county-wide program to turn in recyclable bottles and cans. Encouraging groups, schools, other organizations to “adopt” a stretch of shoreline to do monthly cleanups on “their” stretches, and to generally keep an eye on them, could be transformative; at the end of each year, the groups who tally the most trash could be recognized in some way by the city and/or county. Cohesive messaging as to what is going on, why it matters and impacts each individual, and how to get involved, on a regular basis, rather than just a few times a year, could start changing behavior.

GROUP 5 CANDIDATE RESPONSES: Mitch Novick, David Suarez

MITCH NOVICK

Your campaign website: www.mitchnovick.com

Feel free to share any video links, YouTube channel or other ways that people can hear directly from you:

https://www.facebook.com/people/Mitch-Novick-for-Miami-Beach-Commission-Group-5/61551201115509/

1) Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office. 

I'm a 35 year resident of Miami Beach, having devoted myself to public service throughout. I'm committed to curbing over-development, preserving our historic structures, and relentlessly advocating for the improved quality of life of our residents.

2) Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami. 

Biscayne Bay is a Miami Beach treasure and it's health directly impacts our City. Whether it's the thousands of residents that live next to the Bay, or the great recreational opportunities it provides, to the habitat for marine life, it's very important to me and make sure its health remains a top priority.

3) There are a lot of problems facing Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest issues, and what are you prepared to do about them?

The primary threats to Biscayne Bay include stormwater discharge, construction debris and runoff, street runoff, the impact from the ever expanding cruise terminals, and the potential exacerbation by our pump stations. Furthermore, the challenges of sea level rise, climate change, warmer waters, and ongoing dredging in the vicinity can't be ignored. I will push for comprehensive measures to mitigate these threats, ensuring that our policies prioritize the health of the Bay.

4) Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

Growth must be sustainable. By implementing strict environmental impact assessments and incentivizing green developments, we can allow growth without sacrificing our natural resources. We must prioritize long-term environmental health over short-term profits.

5) Stormwater is a major conveyance of pollutants from the streets into Biscayne Bay – and these pollutants include plastics and nutrients from organic material (leaves and grass clippings). What actions will you champion to ensure the water coming from our streets is clean enough to flow into the Bay?

I'll champion the expansion of green infrastructure like permeable pavements, bioswales, and rain gardens to filter pollutants. Investing in modern stormwater treatment systems will ensure that runoff entering the Bay is clean.

6) How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

We should introduce stricter regulations on single-use plastics, increase recycling initiatives, and continue public campaigns on the importance of reducing plastic use. Regular cleanup events and promoting eco-friendly alternatives can make a significant difference.

7) When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

Environmental stewardship begins at home. By organizing community workshops, educational programs, and hands-on bay restoration projects, we can foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among residents. Engaged communities are the backbone of lasting environmental solutions.

DAVID SUAREZ

Your campaign website: www.davidsuarezmb.com

Feel free to share any video links, YouTube channel or other ways that people can hear directly from you:

1) Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office. 

Hi my name is David Suarez and I am running to be your next City Commissioner in Group 5.

A little bit about me, I grew up right here in South Florida in Sunny Isles, before Sunny Isles

turned into a high-rise jungle. I am a product of the public school system, then graduated from the University of Florid with adegree in Mechanical Engineering. After graduating I returned to South Florida in 2008, moved into Miami Beach, and I fell in love with our island.

A few years ago, I became a local activist a few years ago when I lived in SOFI over an influx of short-term developments which aimed to convert residential buildings into short-term rental hotels. This led me to create a grass roots movement called “Save Sofi” where I personally canvassed neighborhoods and launched a media campaign highlighting the issues around short-term rental abuses within residential neighborhoods.

My efforts resulted in the passage of a local ordinance that prohibits the last vestiges of short-term rentals in my neighborhood. Another accomplishment of my local activism, the City Commission adopted an ordinance to close a 70-year loophole that allowed valet parking vendors unfairly use disabled placards to park in residential neighborhoods – citywide - for an unlimited amount of time. That’s a good new policy for residents.

So, I decided to bring my activist spirit to our City Commission and decided to run this year.

Since I began this campaign, I have knocked on thousands of doors across Miami Beach. As you City Commissioner I plan on being a voice and a representative for the residents and their best interests. I have self-funded my own campaign and have not taken or asked for a single dime from developers. I believe it is important to walk into the office on day one as an independent voice for you, the residents.

My platform consists of combating over development, public safety, the environment both on land and in our waterways, keeping residential neighborhoods residential, and accountability at city hall.

I will always be open to talk and listen, one on one together, on how Miami Beach can be the

best city to live in.

2) Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami. 

Biscayne Bay is a treasure. Both in terms of our environment but also as a tourist destination to divers and wildlife lovers. 

3) There are a lot of problems facing Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest issues, and what are you prepared to do about them?

Storm Water. Endless amount of trash and debris (plastics, run off, etc) are being dumped into the bay after every rain storm. I will make sure our city moves forward with the Storm Water Master Plan that will alleviate trash and debris being dumped into our bay. 

4) Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

I believe we need to have a pause on most new development and focus our efforts on infrastructure, such as storm water

5) Stormwater is a major conveyance of pollutants from the streets into Biscayne Bay – and these pollutants include plastics and nutrients from organic material (leaves and grass clippings). What actions will you champion to ensure the water coming from our streets is clean enough to flow into the Bay?

Moving forward and restarting all Storm Water upgrades throughout Miami Beach. 

6) How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

I would want to start an incentive program with all of our commercial stories to go plastic free. Also, I believe we can upgrade our storm drains to better "catch" plastic before they enter our storm water system, and ensure we have the proper maintenance schedule to upkeep our drains. 

7) When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

Host more events that involve our native environment. Engage with the community on events similar to turtle fest. Build marketing campaigns that focus on keeping our city clean for not only the residents but our natural wildlife as well 

GROUP 6 CANDIDATES RESPONSES: Marcella Novella

GROUP 6 CANDIDATES WHO DID NOT SUBMIT RESPONSES: Joe Magazine

MARCELLA NOVELA

Your campaign website: www.marcellanovela.com

Feel free to share any video links, YouTube channel or other ways that people can hear directly from you:

1) Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office. 

I'm a resident in Miami Beach for over 22 years, I have served on City boards for over a decade. I am running for office because I can't stand by any longer and watch our city and environment be destroyed by overdevelopment, failing infrastructure and crime. I am a mother of two daughters who were born at Mt.Sinai, I'm running to fight for the future of Miami Beach, the best city in the world. 

2) Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami. 

I'm a kitesurfer, swimmer, scuba diver and avid boater, I am an ocean lover and I love Biscayne Bay and our waterways. There's no single issue which I feel more passionately about for. We need to fix our infrastructure, we need to reduce our trash, we need to continue to incentivize businesses and residents to stop using single use plastics, and we need to address, immediately, the boats which are dumping their waste into our precious bay and destroying our water quality. 

3) There are a lot of problems facing Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest issues, and what are you prepared to do about them?

One of the biggest issues are boats which dump their waste into our bay. I plan to create a mobile pump out unit with services every single boat in our bay and waterways, for free. We have to make it easy for these boats, otherwise they will continue to dump their waste in our bay and waterways. We need to be proactive, not reactive. We need to protect our bay and waterways and not wait till its too late. Indian Creek is a perfect example. The water quality is often in the red zone on Swim Guide because of this very reason, I have several testimonials which have witnessed this behavior. My dear friend lives on Indian Creak, next to Pine Tree Park, he shared that the gentleman repairing his seawall had to be hospitalized for a month after contracting a bacterial infection from his extended exposure to the water in Indian Creek. This is unacceptable. This same neighbor said that his boat cleaner will no longer take jobs on Indian Creek because the boat bottoms corrode 2x faster than other marine areas where he works on boats.

4) Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

We need to stop overdevelopment and focus on the issues at hand, failing infrastructure and boats polluting our bay. Our natural resources are also our number one attraction and asset, we most protect them fervently.

5) Stormwater is a major conveyance of pollutants from the streets into Biscayne Bay – and these pollutants include plastics and nutrients from organic material (leaves and grass clippings). What actions will you champion to ensure the water coming from our streets is clean enough to flow into the Bay?

Tomorrow night I will attend a Stormwater Master Plan Workshop to learn more about the master plan which is being proposed.

6) How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

We need to encourage and incentivize the minimization of plastic use. We are preempted from Tallahassee sadly from being able to ban plastics, so we need to create a plan in which we help our businesses transition to plastic free. We also need to contribute more resources to cleaning our city to make sure this garbage doesn't end up in our bay. One of my first actions as Commissioner will be to create Clean Streets Miami Beach initiative. 

7) When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

Education is key, most people are detached from the reality and consequences of their actions. We need to educate and inspire our residents to want a better future, a cleaner future. The rewards we will reap go beyond just the environment, and thats important to convey. Clean streets are safe streets. Safety and security are also on the top list of concerns from residents.