Meet the candidates for North Miami mayor and council. Here’s what they have to say
North Miami residents will elect a mayor and two council members on Tuesday, Nov. 5.
We asked the 13 candidates where they stood on key issues facing the city. Here is how they responded:
NORTH MIAMI MAYOR
Why are you running for office?
Naomi Esther Blemur: I’m running because our city deserves leadership that puts the needs of our community first. As a wife, mother, small business owner, and the child of Haitian immigrants, I know firsthand the challenges our families face. Poor management and the misuse of taxpayer dollars have hurt the people of North Miami, and I believe we need a change.
Daphne Campbell: Did not respond.
Alix Desulme: I am running for mayor because I care deeply about North Miami and want to provide experienced leadership that balances our city’s interests. I have a proven track record of delivering for North Miami for over a decade. My legislative record on the city council has focused on only one thing: the people. I am committed to providing experienced leadership that benefits our city best.
Héctor Medina: North Miami needs new leadership to modernize our infrastructure and meet community needs. With years of involvement in city affairs, I understand the issues and will promote sustainable growth, public safety, and listen to all voices in this diverse city.
What makes you the best candidate for the position you are seeking?
Naomi Esther Blemur: I currently serve on 5 boards in the city, I’ve worked closely with local organizations and residents to address key issues affecting our neighborhoods. From affordable housing to improving small business opportunities, I’ve been on the front lines, advocating for solutions that work.
Daphne Campbell: Did not respond.
Alix Desulme: I am a 31-year-old North Miami resident and a proud NMSH School graduate. I have extensive experience in local government, having served in all three elected positions in the city’s 98-year history. My deep understanding of the city’s operations and ambitious vision for North Miami’s future make me the best candidate. I have led successful initiatives to improve public safety, build the city’s reserve, promote sustainability, and provide housing and social services to those in need.
Héctor Medina: With experience in managing family shelters, emergency services, and clinics, I’ve balanced budgets and led personnel. I’m confident I can lead North Miami out of its current crisis toward an inclusive and prosperous future.
What is the most pressing issue facing the community you wish to represent?
Naomi Esther Blemur: Affordable living is the main issue. Many residents are struggling with rising costs of housing, utilities, transportation, and basic necessities. I will focus on creating policies that ensure families can thrive, from increasing affordable housing options to supporting small businesses, improving public services, and making our city more livable.
Daphne Campbell: Did not respond.
Alix Desulme: North Miami faces several critical issues, including affordable housing, inflation, traffic congestion, and flooding. The most urgent problem is our deteriorating water treatment plant, which requires over half a billion dollars to repair. This has led to water pressure and other critical issues in several neighborhoods. Our dilapidated water plant needs to be in better shape. We have been trying to repair our plant for years but are at a crossroads, and we must resolve this issue now.
Héctor Medina: We need a new water plant, a balanced budget, and professional management. The previous administration misused funds and fired the City Manager when she imposed fiscal discipline. I’ll fight corruption and represent all of North Miami.
NORTH MIAMI COUNCILPERSON - DISTRICT 1
Why are you running for office?
Kevin A. Burns: Did not respond.
Vanessa Pierre: As a North Miami Senior High student in 2006, I knew I would return and run for City Council after earning my undergraduate degree. Now, as an educator, my motivation comes from my advocacy on issues vital to my neighbors. I have consistently been present, vocal, and ready to work, making me the most qualified candidate to represent District 1.
Evan A. Shields: North Miami residents deserves better. I’m running for North Miami City Council District 1 to turn the page on our City’s past and drive positive change for honest leadership, stronger public safety and smart growth across North Miami.
Jessica Wolland: I was born, raised and educated in North Miami. I truly care what happens in our city and to our diverse community. I served on my 1st city board at the age of 11 and haven’t stopped looking for ways to enrich our community. I’m passionate and invested in our future. This is my HOME & my interest is to make our city resilient, sustainable and progressive.
What makes you the best candidate for the position you are seeking?
Kevin A. Burns: Did not respond.
Vanessa Pierre: My advocacy on key issues makes me the best candidate for North Miami City Council District 1. From fighting for Arch Creek Nature Preserve to opposing the NoMi GoBond and pushing for infrastructure upgrades to address flooding, I’ve been a consistent, strong voice for our neighborhood, always front and center on matters that impact our community.
Evan A. Shields: I’m a former teacher, small business owner, husband and father who’s deeply concerned about North Miami’s future, like you. Councilman Galvin appointed me Chair of our Housing Commission and on our Board of Adjustment. I believe I’ve got the right vision, fresh perspective and proven track record to lead our City to brighter future for all.
Jessica Wolland: Working for the city for 18 yrs gave me a perspective of the dedication that is needed & the level of service our residents deserve. Growing up in city hall engrained in me a sense of civic duty which remains by staying informed & observing every City Council, CRA, Board of Adjustment, Planning Commission & KPNA meeting. I am open & transparent.
What is the most pressing issue facing the community you wish to represent?
Kevin A. Burns: Did not respond.
Vanessa Pierre: Residents of North Miami are deeply concerned about fiscal responsibility, especially with irresponsible spending at City Hall and the urgent need for a new water plant. Many wonder why funds aren’t being invested in infrastructure. Additionally, addressing the flooding crisis is critical, as storms have damaged homes and cars across the community.
Evan A. Shields: Competence. Plain and simple. We need to hire another stellar City Manager. We need to balance our budget and re-invest in our Water Plant, parks, and roads. We need to stand up to FIU + the State on any opening of NE 135th St. We need to transform the over-development to smart growth. I’m the most competent District 1 candidate to get it done.
Jessica Wolland: A failing infrastructure that needs to keep up with development including a new water plant. In addition, we need prudent financial management and a qualified city manager that is allowed to perform their job.
NORTH MIAMI COUNCILPERSON - DISTRICT 4
Why are you running for office?
Daniel Calixte: I am running for office because to help reducing crime, providing much needed services to the elderly population and to help sustain small businesses in District 4.
Charlie Nacivre Charles: Did not respond.
Pierre Frantz Charles: I was appointed to the seat on January 10, 2023. I would like to continue serving District 4 residents.
Beverly Hilton: Did not respond.
Bethynel “Betty” Vega: I have lived in North Miami for 20 years. I am proud to raise my two kids here. However, I along with many residents have lost faith in the council. We rally in support of our city manager and the council fires her. We rally against 18 story buildings at Claude Pepper Park and they approve it anyways. Residents deserve a true voice to represent us.
What makes you the best candidate for the position you are seeking?
Daniel Calixte: I am the best candidate for the position because after 25 years living in the City, as a health administrator, small business owner, and some one who builds the social services and the senior services for the City builds the congregate meal site for the elderly and a lifelong activist for the less fortunate of the City.
Charlie Nacivre Charles: Did not respond.
Pierre Frantz Charles: I have been serving District 4 for over 18 months and accumulate a wealth of knowledge both in terms of policies and the legislative process. As a public school teacher for over 15 years and an adjunct professor mathematics for more than 10 years, I will always be thoughtful, transparent, and honest in my decision-making process.
Beverly Hilton: Did not respond.
Bethynel “Betty” Vega: I served as a Guardian ad Litem in my community for many years. It was my job to ensure the well-being of vulnerable children, investigating their living conditions, and reporting on their environment. I kept them safe and connected to valuable resources. I will bring accountability, transparency, and commitment to bring all residents to the table.
What is the most pressing issue facing the community you wish to represent?
Daniel Calixte: The most pressing issue is the home service for the elderly and reducing crimes.
Charlie Nacivre Charles: Did not respond.
Pierre Frantz Charles: Affordable housing is one of the most pressing issues in District 4.
Beverly Hilton: Did not respond.
Bethynel “Betty” Vega: There are many issues that need to be addressed but it is impossible to address them if we do not solve the problem of disconnect between the residents and council. Residents tell the council what we want and what affects us. Listening to residents and focusing on the necessities like funding our water treatment plant repairs over more parties.