Question 1. How will you ensure residents’ voices are heard?

If elected, how do you plan to stay engaged with Shenandoah residents and neighborhood associations like MSNA? What steps will you take to remain accessible, transparent, and responsive to community concerns? Past commissioners have had very different approaches—how will you foster consistent communication and accountability? Would you commit to regularly attending MSNA’s monthly meetings or sending a representative from your office?

Response: City Hall must serve residents first. If elected, I am committed to continuing to attend MSNA meetings regularly or sending a representative from my office to ensure your voices are heard. I will establish direct communication channels with neighborhood associations and provide clear updates on city decisions that affect Shenandoah. My goal is to build trust through accessibility, transparency, and accountability.

 

 

Question 2. Traffic Safety in Shenandoah

Speeding and reckless driving remain persistent concerns on Shenandoah’s residential streets, particularly around schools, parks, and the library. In 2018, the City of Miami paid for a comprehensive traffic calming study by Kimley-Horn, which identified more than 250 potential improvements. To date, only a handful of those recommendations have been implemented. 

Will you commit to prioritizing and implementing the Shenandoah Traffic Calming Plan if elected? What specific steps would you take to ensure these improvements move forward and make our streets safer for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers?

Response: Traffic safety is a top priority. Too many families worry about speeding and reckless driving near our schools, parks, and libraries. I will fight to fully implement the Shenandoah Traffic Calming Plan, starting with the most critical intersections. I will secure funding, ensure proper enforcement, and coordinate closely with residents and engineers to move projects forward. Safer streets mean more walkable, family-friendly neighborhoods where kids and seniors feel secure crossing the road.

 

Question 3. How will you support public safety in our neighborhood?

Please share your approach to keeping Shenandoah safe. How would you collaborate with law enforcement and the community to address crime prevention, emergency response, and neighborhood concerns?

Response: Keeping Shenandoah safe requires strong partnerships between residents, law enforcement, and City Hall. I will host a quarterly community safety gathering, work to increase police presence where it is most needed, expand community outreach programs, and upgrade street lighting to deter crime. I believe prevention is key, and we must engage youth, support mentorship opportunities, and strengthen neighborhood watch programs. We can reduce crime before it happens. Public safety is not just about policing; it’s about building trust and collaboration.

 

Question 4. What is your vision for improving city services in Shenandoah?

Many residents face issues with trash/recycling collection and obtaining permits for routine maintenance like trimming trees. How would you work to improve the consistency and quality of city services in our neighborhood?

Response: Every resident deserves reliable, high-quality city services. Too often, Shenandoah families face inconsistent trash pickup or delays with permits for basic needs. As commissioner, I will demand accountability from city departments, and advocate for dedicated crews focused on our district. City services should work for people.

 

Question 5. How would you support beautification?

Shenandoah residents consistently express a desire for more tree canopy and neighborhood greening. What are your plans to support tree planting and increase our urban canopy as part of your vision for neighborhood beautification?

Response: I share Shenandoah’s vision for a greener, more beautiful neighborhood. Expanding our tree canopy is essential for shade, air quality, and quality of life. I will push for increased investment in tree planting programs, prioritize areas with limited canopy coverage, and work with residents on community greening projects. Beautification is not cosmetic—it strengthens neighborhood pride, property values, and resiliency.

 

Question 6. Will you support recreational programming at City parks for all ages?

Will you continue to support these types of initiatives—and expand access to youth programs such as after-school activities, summer camps, and mentorship opportunities—to help keep children, families, and seniors active, healthy, and connected through sports and enrichment?

Response: Yes. Parks are where our community connects. I will support existing programs and fight to expand youth after-school activities, summer camps, and mentorship opportunities. I will also advocate for programming that includes seniors and families, so all residents have safe, affordable spaces to stay active and engaged. Investing in parks is investing in our children’s future and our community’s health.

 

 

Question 7. Resiliency & Flooding:

Shenandoah, like many neighborhoods in Miami, is vulnerable to flooding and other climate-related challenges. What strategies or initiatives would you support to improve neighborhood resiliency and address stormwater management or flooding concerns?

Response: Flooding is one of Miami’s biggest challenges, and Shenandoah must be part of the solution. As commissioner, I will request for an immediate audit of the Miami Forever Bonds to determine what projects remain outstanding and reprogram projects to include expedited stormwater management, seawalls, and green spaces that reduce flooding. I would also fight to secure state and federal funding to ensure these projects don’t overly burden local taxpayers.

 

Question 8. Zoning & Development:

What is your position on zoning changes or development proposals that may affect the character and affordability of our neighborhood? For example, Agenda Item PZ-7 permitting the construction of a second, smaller residential unit (Ancillary Dwelling Unit, ADU) on single-family (T3-R) properties.

Response: I believe in growth that respects the character of our neighborhoods. I oppose reckless upzoning that makes housing more expensive and strains infrastructure, but I am open to thoughtful solutions like ADUs that help families stay together and improve affordability when done responsibly. I will work with residents to carefully evaluate proposals and ensure any development protects Shenandoah’s unique character and long-term affordability.

 

Question 9. Closing Question – Why You?

Why should Shenandoah residents vote for you? What sets you apart as the best candidate to represent and serve this community?

Response: I am running because I believe District 3 deserves a commissioner who will prioritize safety, infrastructure, affordability, and transparency. Born in Havana and having lived in Miami for nearly 12 years now, I know firsthand the challenges families face. In the last three years, I’ve served as General Manager of a well-known Miami restaurant, where I learned the value of hard work, leadership, and accountability. I also earned a degree in International Relations & Political Science from FIU, equipping me with the knowledge to navigate complex policy issues, and I have accomplished all this through hard work and determination. I humbly ask for your trust and your vote to serve the people of Shenandoah.