scatter365 Meet the candidates for Doral mayor and council. Here’s what they have to say
Doral residents will elect a mayor and two council members on Tuesday, Nov. 5.
We asked all five candidates where they stood on key issues facing the city. Here is how they responded:
DORAL MAYORWhy are you running for office?
Christi Fraga: As Mayor to build on our progress and continue advocating for our community. We’ve strengthened public safety, supported responsible growth, and enhanced quality of life for residents and businesses. I’m committed to keeping Doral safe, thriving, and vibrant, while addressing our ongoing challenges with innovation and transparency.
Roxanna Garay: The City of Doral needs a leader who can bring unity, collaboration, and stability. The residents of Doral deserve elected officials who are focused on serving our community and not creating division. I will be committed to fostering an environment that will allow us to work together to move forward and regain our respect as an elite city.
What makes you the best candidate for the position you are seeking?
Christi Fraga: I have a proven track record, deep understanding of our community’s needs, and unwavering dedication to Doral’s residents. My experience in public service and results-driven approach have led to improvements in public safety, infrastructure, and community engagement. I bring strong leadership, transparency, and the ability to navigate complex issues.
Roxanna Garay: Experience in creating and managing a successful multinational logistics business has given me unique skills in financing, administration, and communication that are transferable. My education and knowledge in sustainability and smart cities will allow me to bring innovation and green initiatives that will elevate our city’s certification ISO 37122.
What is the most pressing issue facing the community you wish to represent?
Christi Fraga: Doral’s biggest challenges include traffic congestion and overdevelopment. Responsible, controlled growth is crucial to preserving our community’s character and quality of life. We must prioritize public safety and keep crime low. The relocation of the Waste-to-Energy facility is also a top concern to protect residents’ health and well-being.
Roxanna Garay: Traffic, safety, and the incinerator. Doral needs to have a decisive vote for the relocation and the construction of the new garbage incinerator. The chosen contractor must work in collaboration with Doral to recoup funds and provide economic relief to the residents through the Waste to Energy facility. Congestion and public safety.
DORAL COUNCILMEMBER - SEAT 1Why are you running for office?
Ivette Gonzalez Petkovich: I want to ensure Doral is victorious against the incinerator. In October of 2021, I launched a campaign urging the County to shut down the facility. I and several active residents have come so far, but if elected, there is so much more I can contribute and achieve.
Rafael Pineyro: I believe in the progress we’ve made in our community and want to keep that momentum going. Over the past term, we’ve tackled crucial issues like public safety, repealed the elected official’s lifetime pensions, advocated for responsible and controlled growth, expanded community events, and finally opening the Doral Central Park.
What makes you the best candidate for the position you are seeking?
Ivette Gonzalez Petkovich: My legal training and experience, especially as a litigant, is the starkest difference. I also have a track record of taking on complicated issues and making progress. My decisions on the dais will always be autonomous and guided only by the resident’s best interests.
Rafael Pineyro: It is because of my proven track record of service and commitment to our community. I have consistently advocated for policies that enhance public safety, promote economic growth, and protect our quality of life. My experience in local government has equipped me with the skills to navigate complex challenges. I am dedicated to listening to residents.
What is the most pressing issue facing the community you wish to represent?
Ivette Gonzalez Petkovich: Aside from the incinerator, the most pressing issue in Doral is public safety.
Rafael Pineyro: The most pressing issue facing Doral is the relocation of the waste-to-energy facility, which directly impacts our air quality and residents’ health. I’ve been actively advocating for its removal. Ensuring its relocation, along with managing responsible growth and improving traffic and public safety, is critical to Doral’s future.
DORAL COUNCILMEMBER - SEAT 3Why are you running for office?
Juan Carlos Esquivel: Is a calling I have, I have been a public activist and servant for over 30 years in multiple organizations.
Nicole Reinoso: To improve public safety by increasing our police force, enrich the lives of our seniors by providing them with more engaging activities and fostering partnerships with community organizations. I am committed to advocating for our children, including those with special needs, by utilizing our parks and resources available to the City.
Irina Vilariño: To give back to my community.
What makes you the best candidate for the position you are seeking?
Juan Carlos Esquivel: I have a good connection with my neighbor residents. My professional and personal experience has equipped me with the skills needed to be an effective leader. Whether it’s my involvement in local initiatives or my ability to collaborate with diverse issues we face, I’ve consistently demonstrated strong leadership and community service.
Nicole Reinoso: I have been involved with the City of Doral before I had political aspirations — my intentions with my City are for the overall enhancement of our quality of life. With experience in working for both the Doral and in the MDCPS Board & Administration, I have gained valuable insights into the city’s needs and how to effectively solve problems.
Irina Vilariño: I believe those who hold political office should have some form of success in the private sector before participating in politics.
What is the most pressing issue facing the community you wish to represent?
Juan Carlos Esquivel: Starting with the traffic challenges caused by overdevelopment, ensuring safety in our neighborhoods, and addressing the rising cost of government, I am committed to tackling these pressing issues head-on to improve the quality of life for all residents.
Nicole Reinoso: 1. Enhancing Public Safety 2. Protect taxpayers by continuing the fight against lifetime pensions for Doral politicians 3. Promote effective traffic solutions 4. Invest in cultural activities, infrastructure, and our parks and recreation 5. Plan for responsible growth in the City of Doral.
Irina Vilariño: Divisive politics, ineptitude and inefficiency, political operatives
This story was originally published October 2, 2024, 7:00 AM.
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