Opa-locka mayor’s resignation created vacancies. His former foe wants a commission seat
As Opa-locka deals with the ripple effect that followed the sudden resignation of former Mayor Matthew Pigatt, it is gearing up to fill a vacancy on the commission.
Former Vice Mayor Veronica Williams is now serving in Pigatt’s place as interim mayor, and the Opa-locka Commission on Wednesday voted to make Commissioner John Taylor the vice mayor. Now, the commission will solicit applications to make an appointment to Taylor’s seat to fill out the time left on his term.
The idea of holding a special election was floated briefly during Wednesday’s special commission meeting, but Commissioner Chris Davis cited a $30,000 cost as a reason to instead appoint someone to the position. The position needs to be filled in the next month, according to the city charter.
Commissioners agreed to solicit letters of interest and resumes, and make an appointment based on the pool of candidates who raise their hands. The commission will schedule a special meeting to appoint a new member.
The mayor and commissioners are elected to four-year terms, which pay $550 in monthly compensation. Taylor was elected in 2018. Opa-locka’s next election is set to be held on Nov. 8, 2022, when voters will elect a mayor and two commissioners.
Dorothy Johnson wants another shot
Supporters of former Commissioner Dorothy “Dottie” Johnson’s supporters want her to be appointed to the seat and rallied behind her Wednesday. During the public comment period of the special commission meeting, several residents encouraged the commission to pick their friend.
Johnson, a retired U.S. Postal manager who served as a city commissioner between 2006 and 2014, said in an interview that she plans to apply.
In 2018, Johnson unsuccessfully ran for mayor against Pigatt. That year, her political rivals, including Pigatt, unsuccessfully sued to have her removed from the ballot. She also ran for commission in 2020 and lost.
She has served on the boards of numerous civic organizations, including the Historic Hampton House Trust and the public school system’s diversity equity and excellence advisory committee.
“I know the community has potential, and I am mentally, physically able, and I feel as though I have something to offer,” she said. “I still see there is a need, and I think the community can do better.”