z25 Meet the candidates for Sunny Isles Beach commissioner. Here’s what they have to say
Sunny Isles Beach residents will elect two city commissioners on Tuesday, Nov. 5.
We asked the six candidates where they stood on key issues facing the city. Here is how they responded:
SUNNY ISLES BEACH COMMISSIONER - SEAT 1Why are you running for office?
Patricia Alvarez: I am running for City Commissioner because the future of our community is at stake. Divisive leadership isn’t helping to improve our community. I am a strong community leader that will listen to the resident’ concerns and provide solid and common sense solutions. Two of my strengths are great communication skills and superior work ethics.
George Bardmesser: Did not respond.
Jerry Joseph: I am an incumbent Commissioner interested in further assisting the residents of Sunny Isles Beach regarding traffic safety, police presence, homelessness, overdevelopment and protecting the West Side of Collins Avenue and Dumfoundling Bay. I am endorsed by the SFLPBA for my push to increase our police force by 15 officers during my first term.
Iracilda Lichtinger: I’m running for office because I’m invested in our community and want to help it thrive. As a teacher and active volunteer, I understand our residents’ needs. I’m passionate about enhancing safety, improving public spaces, and addressing traffic challenges. Together, we can create a safe, welcoming Sunny Isles Beach for all families!
What makes you the best candidate for the position you are seeking?
Patricia Alvarez: I believe I am the best candidate for this position because of my proven ability to get things done. I never give up. I believe it is critical to build consensus with my peers, not divisiveness, in order to push through resolutions and programs for the residents. In my view, serving the residents is the most important role of a commissioner.
George Bardmesser: Did not respond.
Jerry Joseph: I am innovative in my ideas for residents. I discovered that our non-emergency 911 service did not recognize the location of people with cell phones from so many different area codes, and with our Chief Santiago, initiated Carbyne software that now links 911 calls to the caller through a video link for accurate response and a life saver.
Iracilda Lichtinger: I’m eager to contribute to our community because I care deeply about its well-being. My experience in various organizations has shown me our residents’ unique challenges. I’m committed to making Sunny Isles Beach safer, healthier, and more inclusive. Let’s work together to create the vibrant community we all envision!
What is the most pressing issue facing the community you wish to represent?
Patricia Alvarez: Sunny Isles Beach has evolved into a thriving community since its inception. I believe this is the right time to invest in families with children with emphasis on teens/youth programs. Concurrently, traffic safety is a concern of all the residents so I plan to developing strategies, with the help of the police department, to keep our residents safe.
George Bardmesser: Did not respond.
Jerry Joseph: Condo corruption.
Iracilda Lichtinger: Our key challenges are traffic and public safety. Residents deserve quality family time, not time stuck in cars. Improving parks and recreational spaces is essential for community bonding. By prioritizing these areas, we can enhance our quality of life. I’m committed to making Sunny Isles Beach a vibrant, safe place for everyone!
SUNNY ISLES BEACH COMMISSIONER - SEAT 3Why are you running for office?
Greg Capra: I’m running for office because I believe in responsible governance, fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability. Sunny Isles needs a leader who understands a dollar’s value. I’m not a career politician; I believe in the power of the people and the need for a government that serves its citizens, not the other way around.
Fabiola Stuyvesant: Commitment! Commissioner Fabiola strongly advocated for victims of communism, human trafficking, pedestrian safety, and for increasing penalties against careless driving, she proposed and supported pro-Israel resolutions, and resolutions condemning terrorist organizations such as Hamas and Hezbollah.
What makes you the best candidate for the position you are seeking?
Greg Capra: I’m the best candidate due to my 40+ years of self-employment, 15 years as HOA board president, and proven leadership. I’ve experienced economic up-and-down cycles and challenges and bring that to the commission. I focus on results, not political grandstanding, with a dedication to fiscal responsibility, and representing the people with integrity.
Fabiola Stuyvesant: Proven Results! Commissioner Fabiola spearheaded lowering the tax millage rate to its lowest level ever, increasing police officers hiring and crossing-guard services, expanding SIB Shuttle service, building additional lifeguard towers, eliminating fishing fees, securing a teen-only space “The Spot,” increasing seniors’ activities and more.
What is the most pressing issue facing the community you wish to represent?
Greg Capra: The most pressing issue for Sunny Isles Beach is managing growth while preserving our quality of life. We must balance development with maintaining our beaches, smooth traffic, and protecting the environment. By focusing on smart growth, improving public services, and safety, and ensure efficient, smaller government that empowers residents.
Fabiola Stuyvesant: Leadership! Fabiola will continue her effort to start a City Special Assessment Assistance Program, lower building permit fees, restore county Bus Routes, expand green and sport areas, add EV charging stations, renovate public bathrooms. She will continue exposing the misuse of funds in government and nonprofits by implementing an open-book policy.
This story was originally published October 2, 2024, 7:00 AM.
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