fortune play Meet the candidates for Key Biscayne village council. Here’s what they have to say
Key Biscayne residents will elect a council member on Tuesdayfortune play, Nov. 5.
We asked the six candidates where they stood on key issues facing the village. Here is how they responded:
Why are you running for office?
Michael F. Bracken: 37 years ago, I met my wife, Christina, on KB and have since built our life and raised a family on this island paradise. We have a strong history of giving back to the community. Recently retired I have time and can offer 30+ years of leadership experience as the President of a 100-year-old, internationally recognized construction company.
Franklin H. Caplan: Community service still calls. Having served two productive terms as mayor and 12 years on Council, having studied the issues and grappled with all the policy pros and cons, I am well-prepared and can best contribute still on the dais where the discussions occur and decisions are made.
Charles Hyatt Collins: To protect Paradise from overdevelopment, the environment and reckless spending
Mark E. Fried: To lead to alternatives to the past village council’s indecision of important issues. Work with other council members to set a high standard of governance that will flow down throughout the Village’s management and staff.
Nicolas Lopez-Jenkins: Two years ago, I ran for office to bring positive change to our village. Although I didn’t win, the experience strengthened my commitment. I’m excited to announce my candidacy again, driven by your support. Together, we can tackle important issues like resiliency and public safety. Thank you for considering me once more!
Nancy Stoner: I am running for Council because I value the camaraderie Key Biscayners share, our wondrous natural resources and because I am committed to sustaining both. Self-governance has enabled us to improve our quality of life with excellent municipal services and facilities with the lowest millage rate in the county. I continue with that vision.
What makes you the best candidate for the position you are seeking?
Michael F. Bracken: I am a fiscal conservative who favors undertaking financially feasible projects and I am able to separate the desire to act and the ability to execute projects effectively. My expertise lies in waste control for multimillion-dollar projects, working with developers, architects and municipalities to implement affordable, long-lasting solutions.
Franklin H. Caplan: Experience. Knowledge. My informed perspective about the defining qualities of our community and currents that have influenced policy-making over the years. My sense of duty to the entire community, seeking best outcomes with good judgement and temperement, communication skills and the ability to forge consensus.
Charles Hyatt Collins: I am educated, skilled and licensed in my particular field of interest, undergrounding utilities
Mark E. Fried: I have experience leading other Key Biscayne organizations from a direction that was not in the best interest of the members. My having organized committees and campaigns brought positive outcomes to those organizations.
Nicolas Lopez-Jenkins: I am one of the best candidates for the village council because my previous campaign experience has deepened my understanding of our community’s needs and challenges. With renewed determination and a clear vision for positive change, I am ready to bring fresh ideas and strong leadership to help shape our village’s future.
Nancy Stoner: I am an independent thinker who can analyze issues and find achievable solutions. My 41 years of involvement in Key life and my law practice in construction litigation and real estate will inform my work on Council. I will review staff proposals and budgets with a critical eye and listen to the concerns of residents.
What is the most pressing issue facing the community you wish to represent?
Michael F. Bracken: Reliable power is vital to our community’s safety and security. Without it, essential infrastructure systems fail. I support prioritizing underground power lines. As a municipality, we must also improve transportation & fortify infrastructure; this will enhance quality of life, boost home insurability, and ensure our island’s continued prosperity.
Franklin H. Caplan: Shoreline protection and flood management challenges, involving uncommonly difficult planning and budget decisions. Wisdom, practicality and steadiness are required, mindful of taxpayer burdens and “bang for buck” considerations, while educating ourselves, revisiting assumptions as warranted, and maintaining public trust and confidence throughout.
Charles Hyatt Collins: Addressing the issues of sea level rise and hurricane resiliency while dealing with a mix of new condo regulations.
Mark E. Fried: Setting policy for the long term plan and sensible spending for climate resiliency projects.
Nicolas Lopez-Jenkins: The deteriorating condition of Bear Cut Bridge poses a significant threat to Key Biscayne’s safety and accessibility, impacting both residents and visitors. Addressing this urgent issue is crucial for maintaining our community’s integrity and ensuring reliable connections to the mainland.
Nancy Stoner: As a barrier island, we face many challenges — Bear Cut Bridge, Rickenbacker Causeway, development on Virigina Key and within our Village, flooding, hurricanes, protection of our beaches and bay, playing fields, traffic and e-bikes. I will work cooperatively with Council members and staff to implement practical and achievable solutions.
This story was originally published October 2, 2024, 7:00 AM.
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