Meet the candidates for Miami Lakes mayor and council. Here’s what they have to say
Miami Lakes residents will elect a mayor and a council member on Tuesday, Nov. 5.
We asked the five candidates where they stood on key issues facing the town. Here is how they responded:
MIAMI LAKES MAYOR
Why are you running for office?
Josh Dieguez: As a lifelong resident, owner of a Miami Lakes based business, and longtime community volunteer, I have a unique understanding of and stake in the Town. Being Mayor is the best way to preserve the Miami Lakes so many of us love and a natural step in my public service to the Town I have been giving back to since I was an intern at Town Hall in 2005.
Tony Fernandez: I am running for Mayor because I want to help make Miami Lakes become the Town that I always dreamed about living in as child. I want to preserve the characteristics that make our Town special, while improving the efficiency of our Town Services. I want to continue making Miami Lakes an even better place to live for us and for future generations.
Yuniett Gonzalez: We listened to the voice of the community, especially the clamor of the residents. To give Miami Lakes a new vision that is innovative and inclusive. Our commitment is to preserve what is outstanding and improve what is not. We aim to foster development, progress, and growth based on reinforcing our values, with zero tolerance of corruption.
What makes you the best candidate for the position you are seeking?
Josh Dieguez: I am the only candidate who brings a deep network of contacts to the table for the community’s benefit honed over 14 years of being in and around politics and government and I also have best and consistent record on public safety, ensuring all our parks are properly maintained, and generally putting the needs of Miami Lakes ahead of politics.
Tony Fernandez: I believe I am the best candidate for Mayor of Miami Lakes due to my experience in founding and running my own business, my dedication to community service, and my proven track record of making sound decisions on the Town Council that prioritize our residents. These qualities equip me to effectively lead our town into the future.
Yuniett Gonzalez: We have the business experience, commitment, and sensitivity that guarantee quality in service delivery, efficiency in management, and above all, a clear project with the path we want for the city. Our government program includes the participation of residents in decision-making. Values are not improvised; they are the hallmark of our identity.
What is the most pressing issue facing the community you wish to represent?
Josh Dieguez: Traffic is probably the most pressing issue we face and the best way to mitigate that issue is to create new highway access which I am already working diligently on creating through my contacts at GMX and with Commissioner Rene Garcia.
Tony Fernandez: The most pressing issue facing Miami Lakes is balancing the rising costs of municipal services with the tax burden it places on residents. I believe we can maintain and even improve services, while reducing costs through innovation and smarter approaches. It is essential to meet community needs without taxing people out of their homes.
Yuniett Gonzalez: Safety. It’s everyone’s concern, understood as the protection of the honor, property, and physical integrity of the citizens of Miami Lakes. We have the solution. I am a different candidate, which is why the community has endorsed our campaign: A Lady for Miami Lakes, for order and trust, but mainly for peace and stability for all.
MIAMI LAKES COUNCILMEMBER - SEAT 1
Why are you running for office?
Angelo Garcia Cuadra: Did not respond.
Mario O. Pinera Jr.: I’m running for office because if we want to see real change in our community, we need to get involved and take action. I believe in being part of the solution, and I’m committed to making a positive difference for all of us.
What makes you the best candidate for the position you are seeking?
Angelo Garcia Cuadra: Did not respond.
Mario O. Pinera Jr.: I’m the best candidate because I’m highly resourceful, always willing to go the extra mile to get things done. My focus is on representing the community, not personal interests. It’s about serving the people and working together to make our town better.
What is the most pressing issue facing the community you wish to represent?
Angelo Garcia Cuadra: Did not respond.
Mario O. Pinera Jr.: I believe the most pressing issue in our community is the lack of communication with our residents and not prioritizing their needs. It’s essential that we listen to their concerns and make sure they feel heard and valued in every decision that affects them.
This story was originally published October 2, 2024 at 7:00 AM.