To further assist our readers in making educated decisions when voting in November, we have sent a list of questions to each candidate running for the Supervisor of Elections of Broward County.

Catherine McBreen

1. What is your full name and what position are you running for?

My name is Catherine McBreen and I am running for Broward County Supervisor of Elections.

2. Where are you originally from? 

I was born and raised in Illinois.

–Why did you choose to move to this city/county/school district/state district? 

I moved to Broward County because Illinois is experiencing a financial meltdown and will probably declare bankruptcy as a state.  The tax laws and the weather are much better in Broward County and we have been co-owners of a condo in Fort Lauderdale so have a connection to the community.

-How long have you been here?

I moved to Florida full-time in June of 2019.

 

3. Why are you running for this position? 

I am running for Supervisor of Elections because I believe my work experience makes me uniquely qualified for this position.  I believe Broward needs to rebuild trust in this office and as a non-politician, I can make the SOE’s office non-political.

-Have you run in the past?

I have never run for a political office and I am not interested in being a politician.  I believe my expertise is limited to operationally and efficiently running the SOE’s office. 

 

4. If elected, what is your first point of action? 

If elected my first point of action would be to perform a complete audit of all of the processes and procedures currently in place at the SOE’s office.  For the last 30 years, I have been involved in auditing the operations and technology of various financial institutions.  I believe that that experience qualifies me to ensure that all of your votes are safely and accurately tallied.

-Why? 

Broward has been portrayed as a national embarrassment when it comes to elections with shots of protestors and reporters camped outside of the facility for days.  My goal is to make Broward a model of trust and operational efficiency for the rest of Florida and for the nation.

 

5. What mission do you feel most passionate about? 

I am very passionate about making sure that everyone votes.  Voting is the most important right we have as Americans and we need to make sure we exercise that right.  Many people feel it is a hassle to vote or that their vote doesn’t really count.  We need to find ways to ensure that individuals can vote easily (but within the law) and that they understand how important it is to vote.

-Why? 

I am passionate about voting because it was always portrayed by my parents and grandparents as being important.  While they would not necessarily vote the same way, they would tell me that every vote counts, and mine could be the one that decides the election.  Boy, were they right!  For many of our more recent immigrant citizens, who left tyrannical governments, this right is even more important.

6. Where do you feel our city needs improvement?

I think the Broward SOE needs to improve its technology and the way that voters can vote.

-Why? 

I believe that online voting, in addition to voting by mail, will become increasingly common in the next few decades.  It’s important that we develop the tools for voter registration (such as biometric identification) and actual voting online that will lead us into the future. There is too much worry about hacking.  If financial institutions can allow for on-line banking, there are clearly tools that can be used to protect online voting.

 

7. Where do you feel our city stands above the rest? 

I think Broward County is one of the most influential counties in Florida as well as in the nation.  Due to its diverse population both ethnically and by age, it provides a great opportunity to lead the change to vote processes that are required to move everyone into the future.

-Why? 

Voter fraud is a big issue and whether it is true or not, Broward has a sullied reputation.  We need to show that Broward can be a leader and that the trust that was lost in the past can be regained.

 

8. How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process in our town?

When I become SOE, I will reach out to voters through an aggressive campaign to understand their voting experiences.  This initiative will be via town hall meetings as well as online and social media efforts.  I want to understand their concerns and address any problems they may have encountered.

 

9. What neighborhood do you live in?

I currently live in Davie. 

 

10. Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town?

Broward County offers numerous places to enjoy.  While I like the beach I especially enjoy all of the bike paths available in various parks.

 

Joe Scott will be running against Catherine McBreen. Our attempts to reach him were unsuccessful.

 

Harold F. Pryor

1. What is your full name?

Harold F. Pryor

 

2. Where are you originally from? Why did you choose to move to your current area?

We moved to the area because my wife and I wanted a sense of community and safety for our young family.

-How long have you been here?

3 years.

 

3. If elected, what is your first point of action?

To implement policies and practices that comport with the basic principles of justice, fairness, and equality.

-Why?

Far too often we have witnessed a criminal justice that sometimes neglects victims and the most vulnerable of our society. I am ready to change that as Broward County’s next State Attorney.

 

4. What mission do you feel most passionate about?

Protecting the most vulnerable members of our society. 

-Why?

Many of our elderly citizens are targeted and we must do everything that we can to ensure that our elderly population can live and thrive in Broward County. 

 

5. Where do you feel our city needs improvement?

Providing information, consistently,  regarding health and safety to the masses.

-Why?

In order for us to have a safer community, we must ensure that information is distributed to the community on a consistent basis.

 

6. Where do you feel our city stands above the rest?

The sense or spirit of community. 

-Why?

Many younger families are choosing to live in this area because of the charm and sense of community that it has to offer— which stands above the rest.

 

7. How do you plan to involve residents in the decision making process in our town?

I plan to have quarterly townhalls to keep the community abreast as to developments within my office that will affect the community at-large. 

 

8. If someone came to you with a proposal to build a new piece of public infrastructure in our city (road, bridge, etc.) how would you evaluate whether that project was worth implementing?

My evaluation or criteria will be based on the following: will it benefit the small businesses in our region and will it allow us to maintain a sense of community.

 

9. What neighborhood do you live in? Why? Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town?

We spend a lot of time as a family, at The Walk on University. Great shops, dining, and my son’s favorite, ice cream!

Harold F. Pryor

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Gregg Rossman

1. What is your full name and what position are you running for?

Gregg Rossman. I am running to be the State Attorney for the 17th Circuit (Broward County).

 

2. Where are you originally from?

• Born in Miami, Florida and raised in what is now Miami Gardens.

3. Why did you choose to move to this city/county/school district/state district? 

Presently, live in Hollywood. Moved back to South Florida after attending Florida State.

 

4. How long have you been here?

55 years other than attending college.

 

5. Why are you running for this position?

I am running to be the next State Attorney to ensure victims have a strong and steadfast representative within the justice system. I previously worked as an Assistant State Attorney here in Broward from October 3, 1994 to September 30, 2014. In those 20 years I worked in County Court (also as a Supervisor), the Felony Trial Unit (also as a Supervisor), the Career Criminal Unit (5 years), the Organized Crime Unit (2 years) and finally the Homicide Unit (7.5 years). In that time I fought unapologetically for victims and all those impacted by crime. No one cared more about the mission of the office than I did and that was widely recognized. Defendants/accused have a representative of their own. They do not need one in the State Attorney. It is the State Attorney’s responsibility to make sure that laws are enforced properly and effectively and that cases are prosecuted firmly but fairly. In doing so, the rights of victims must be first in the mind of every employee of the Office.

Have you run in the past?

Never.

 

6. If elected, what is your first point of action?

The first thing I will do is demand maximum commitment from every employee. Metrics must be created and understood to measure the effectiveness of each employee. Promotions will be earned on merit instead of tenure. I worked 20 years in the Broward State Attorney’s Office and not once was I evaluated for performance – good or bad. I was assigned as a Supervisor in both County Court and Felony and I was never asked to evaluate the people I was responsible for. They were never asked to evaluate my ability as a Supervisor.   

-Why?

I worked 20 years in the Broward State Attorney’s Office and not once was I evaluated for performance – good or bad. I was assigned as a Supervisor in both County Court and Felony and I was never asked to evaluate the people I was responsible for. They were never asked to evaluate my ability as a Supervisor. People will rise up to the level of performance demanded of them when they understand what is expected of them and why. They will work harder if they know their work will be recognized and appreciated. 

 

7. What mission do you feel most passionate about?

Abuse of the elderly/seniors. I will create a team made up of attorneys, investigators and support staff that will be solely responsible for wiping out the epidemic of elderly abuse and exploitation in this County. 

-Why?

Shamefully Broward County is to elder abuse what we were to pill mills 10 years ago. This is an overlooked or ignored stain on our community. Law enforcement agencies need to be trained how to find and address these cases. My team will go to each Department and train them so they will have the tools needed to assist us in addressing this epidemic.

Gregg Rossman

 

To further assist our readers in making educated decisions when voting in November, we have sent a list of questions to each candidate running for the District 3 Commissioner of Coral Springs, FL. 

Randal Lee Cutter

1. What is your full name?

Randal Lee Cutter

 

2. Where are you originally from?

Wisconsin

-Why did you choose to move to Coral Springs/Parkland?

I came to Coral Springs back in 1987 to start a congregation.

 

-How long have you been here?

I have worked in Coral Springs since then, though I did live in Margate for a bit over a decade during the past 33 years.

 

3. Why are you running for this position?

I have been deeply involved in Coral Springs for 33 years. In addition to my responsibilities as a pastor and business manager, I was a volunteer police chaplain for four years. I became co-chair of the Clergy Coalition of Coral Springs and Parkland in 2002. I am a member of the Coral Springs Multi-Cultural Advisory Committee (National Day of Prayer Committee) since 2004. I am also a member of the Customer Involved Government Committee and the CS Regional Chamber of Commerce, as well as such as several of our mayor’s personal initiatives, such as the Mental Wellness Networking Alliance, and the Veterans Networking Alliance. This abbreviated resumé indicates that I am deeply involved in this city, and work to help it.

I believe it is important to do our best to keep Coral Springs safe and affordable for everyone, especially those who are on a fixed income, like seniors. I don’t believe you do that by cutting services, but by developing other sources of income, most especially our small businesses and our corporate park.

I believe this is even more important now in our new pandemic and post-pandemic reality as the cities in Broward County are struggling to maintain budgets that were implemented before the pandemic began. The next several years are going to test Coral Springs’s ability to provide the level of services its residents have come to expect, while at the same time not raising property taxes in a way that impacts those least able to afford it.

-Have you run in the past?

I ran for the special election last summer for the Coral Springs Commission Seat 2 in 2019. Also ran for the Broward Commission in 2016

 

4. If elected, what is your first point of action?

I will continue to be involved in this community in the ways listed above, and I will also work hard to make certain that our police department has the personnel, resources, and training to keep our community safe, especially during this time of social unrest.

 

-Why?

A basic premise that any government entity gives to its residents is that it will provide for the protection of their families and their property. This is especially important during times of social unrest. Coral Springs is among the safest cities in Florida. Many of our residents moved here because we are safe. We must commit to fulfilling the promise of safety for our residents.

 

5. What mission do you feel most passionate about? Why? 

Until recently, I would have said that I am most passionate about building unity in our increasingly diverse city. I have devoted my life to helping people understand that they can believe different things, and still live together focused on helping everyone in our city.

However, as I have seen the social unrest grow around the nation, my commitment to building unity hasn’t faded, but the absolute necessity of keeping our residents safe has. If our city isn’t perceived as safe, businesses will not come and people will not stay. This aspect of the city government is critical at this time.

 

6. Where do you feel our city needs improvement?

The issue of customer service is a perennial issue. We need to continually assess every department, from code enforcement, fire inspections, and other areas where the public interacts with our city government so that we are customer-centric, rather than institution-centric.

-Why?

Whether we are city staff or an elected official, we are here to serve the residents. The residents are not here to serve us. That has to be trained and retrained so that it becomes, even more, a part of our government culture.

 

7. Where do you feel our city stands above the rest?

I might be biased on this one, but I think our city has amazing residents, and since most of our city staff come from among our residents, we are blessed with great city staff. This has given Coral Springs a great sense of esprit de corps and unity that we can continue to build on.

 

8. How do you plan to involve residents in the decision making process in our town?

I am a team and a consensus builder. I have appreciated all the opportunities afforded in the past to add input to our city’s future direction. I would continue to encourage the many initiatives to hear from the residents of our city, and inform them of the many issues that confront us as a city. Townhalls and neighborhood meetings can be an effective way of hearing from a larger section of our population.

 

9. If someone came to you with a proposal to build a new piece of public infrastructure in our city (road, bridge, etc.) how would you evaluate whether that project was worth implementing?

The main determining factors include budget and the common good. As stated above, we must make certain we don’t drive out the very residents that built this city by placing severe tax burdens on their property. We certainly cannot build infrastructure beyond the ability of our residents to pay for it. If we have the ability to pay for it, then the question is the common good. How many residents will the project impact for good? There may be some projects that are so critical, that even though it impacts only a few residents, it is necessary for life and safety improvements, but for the most part, public infrastructure should be weighted by the way that it positively impacts the majority of the community.

 

10. What neighborhood do you live in? Why? Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town?

We moved to Eagle Trace last fall. Our only criteria for a home was that it needed to help us care for my disabled mother in the best possible way. We looked at many wonderful homes throughout our community, but the one with the best layout available for her needs was in Eagle Trace, and we have enjoyed living here since then.

My wife, Dawn, and I have enjoyed our well-maintained parks since we first moved here. We have also enjoyed spending time together at the many restaurants that our city has to offer.

Randal Lee Cutter

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Noor Fawzy

1. What is your full name?

Noor Fawzy

 

2. Where are you originally from?

I am the daughter of Palestinian immigrants. My mother was born and raised in Venezuela. I was born in San Antonio, Texas, but have lived in South Florida my entire life. My family and I moved to Coral Springs in 2000 and we are proud to call Coral Springs home.

 

-Why did you choose to move to Coral Springs/Parkland?

My family decided to move to Coral Springs because it is a great place to raise a family. It is one of the safest cities in the State of Florida, the schools are top quality, and there are plenty of recreational opportunities for young people to get involved. I, myself, grew up playing for the Coral Springs Basketball Club up through law school.

 

-How long have you been here?

I have lived here for almost 20 years.

 

3. Why are you running for this position?

I am running for this position because I recognize that policymakers outside of our city don’t always have our best interest in mind, and given the profound influence that local politics has on our day-to-day lives, I don’t think we should wait on anyone to make important policy decisions for us. I want Coral Springs to take the lead on local policy, specifically in the areas of economic growth, suburban development, and public safety, and become the model city for good local government in Broward County and beyond.

 

-Have you run in the past?

No. I am a first-time candidate for public office.

 

4. If elected, what is your first point of action?

(1) At the city level, I would prioritize improving the construction and design of our city roads. Coral Springs is a relatively large city and our population is growing. This will undoubtedly exacerbate traffic and accordingly, increase the likelihood of accidents occurring on our roadways. I would want to work with the appropriate city staff to come up with an alternative road design to promote traffic safety, decrease traffic at intersections, and reduce the response time for our first responders. 

(2) At the county and state levels, I would push to implement cognitive behavioral therapy programs in our schools and to make it a required part of the K through 12 school curriculum, as cognitive-behavioral therapy is known to be effective at treating various mental health issues, including anxiety, stress, and depression, and achieving the prevention of violence in all its forms.

 

5. What mission do you feel most passionate about?

Our finances. Not only do we need to prioritize our spending, but we must also look for ways to increase our revenue base in order to keep taxes low and provide a high-level quality of services in our city. To that end, we should diversify our investment practices and invest in more real property and small businesses, as one example, to increase our overall profit returns. 

Our youth. They are the future of our city, and our future is contingent upon their physical and mental wellbeing. My hope is that our youth will develop a love for sports as I did growing up in Coral Springs and that their mental health will be prioritized in our schools through my proposed cognitive behavioral therapy programs. 

 

6. Where do you feel our city needs improvement? Why?

1. 1. We need to prioritize our spending so that we can provide the most value for every hard-earned taxpayer dollar spent.
2. 2. We need to diversify our revenue base in order to keep taxes low and provide a high-level quality of services in our city.
3. 3. We need to negotiate better with developers to ensure that future development projects provide maximum community benefit.
4. 4. We need to improve our road traffic and design to significantly reduce traffic and the incidence of accidents on our roadways, and reduce the response time of our first responders.
5. 5. We need to prioritize the need for adequate telecommunication infrastructure in order to improve the quality of the Internet, WiFi, cable, and mobile services enjoyed by our residents. 

 

7. Where do you feel our city stands above the rest?

Aesthetics and public safety. Our city takes great pride in maintaining beautiful, clean, and pristine landscaped areas and roads. We are also one of the safest cities in the State of Florida, and I am truly grateful for that. As commissioner, I will work so that we continue to improve in these areas.

 

8. How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process in our town?

Major development proposals and other significant funding initiatives should be voted on by our residents. Decisions as to commissioner salaries should be left to the voters. Our city also needs to have on its official website a running, user-friendly database that can be used to search for all ordinances passed by the City Commission to keep our residents more informed about what decisions are being made on their behalf.

 

9. If someone came to you with a proposal to build a new piece of public infrastructure in our city (road, bridge, etc.) how would you evaluate whether that project was worth implementing?

Is X project a need in our city?

What percentage of our residents would support X project?

How much, if anything, must be budgeted for X project?

Will the city have to raise taxes to accomplish X project?

Can a portion or all of the total cost of X project be satisfied by a third party? Would funding be available by the county or the state?

Will there be a way for the city to generate revenue as a result of X project?

Will the location of X project create or exacerbate a hardship for residents, such as traffic or increased traffic, as an example?

 

9. If the proposal is for a new road, will the construction and design be one that will reduce traffic and promote safer driving practices?

Are there any jurisdictional considerations involved? Does this project need county or state approval?

 

10. What neighborhood do you live in? Why? Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town?

I live at Summerwind, which is operated by a homeowner’s association. The home we purchased was of new or original construction. It is within walking distance to two of the schools my siblings and I went to growing up: Riverside Elementary and J.P. Taravella High School. Our home also within short driving distance to the Coral Square Mall, our doctor’s offices, the salons, our go-to grocery stores, restaurants, and other places we frequent, so our neighborhood is an ideal location for us. 

I enjoy going to our coffee shops, the Coral Springs Gymnasium, Mullins Park, and The Walk for its awesome restaurants.

Noor Fawzy

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Andy Kasten

1. What is your full name and what position are you running for?

Andy Kasten running for Coral Springs City Commission Seat 3 ( Non-Partisan) 

2. Where are you originally from? 

I grew up in Northern New Jersey and have lived in Alabama as well as New York City.

-Why did you choose to move to this city/county/school district/state district? 

We moved to Coral Springs as we believed after much research that this would be a great place to raise a family.  The City was still growing at that time so new home pricing was low (1996), the schools were highly rated, the crime was low, parks were abundant, and there was a large Jewish Community. 

 

-How long have you been here?

Since 1995, so 25 years.

3. Why are you running for this position? 

I have been intimately involved in the Coral Springs Coconut Creek Regional Chamber for over 15 years. First as a member, then as a board member, executive board member, and past Chairman of the Board.  I have also for the last 6 years served on and currently Vice-Chair of the Coral Springs Redevelopment Agency, aka CRA.   This has given me the opportunity to work with hundreds of mostly small business owners in Coral Springs.  Also, this includes being involved in the new Municipal Building and the $170,000,000 “downtown” redevelopment project.  I would like to continue to be more deeply involved in our city and to hopefully bring my business expertise and community involvement to our city and those that live and work here.

 

-Have you run in the past?

No this is the first time running for any elected position.  

4. If elected, what is your first point of action? 

At this time and due to the COVID crisis I would work to continue to keep our current business owners engaged, bring more businesses to our industrial park, and drive the downtown redevelopment these are critical to our economic future. 

-Why? 

Since we are in an economic crisis, and since we are a built-out city, the only way we can keep our taxes down is if we continue to build our business base. Businesses supplant taxes that would otherwise have to increase on our residents.  Also, the business brings jobs which also bring in tax dollars, and business is less burdensome on our city services such as fire, police, and the like.

5. What mission do you feel most passionate about? 

It’s very hard to pick just 1 mission.   I would say continued safety in our schools, community, and economic stimulus would be of high priority, along with Citizen engagement. 

 

-Why?  

These are critical to keeping our city a city of excellence.

6. Where do you feel our city needs improvement?

I think that while the city is doing a better job of communicating with our citizens we can do better.  I find that when our citizens have critical information about certain projects and expenditures, the residents will almost always support these things.   

-Why? 

Communication with the city residents allows them to feel part of the process and thus not excluded. 

 

7. Where do you feel our city stands above the rest? 

We still have great rated schools, fantastic parks, low crime rate, and soon a downtown thriving economic engine, other cities’s can’t boast all of these. 

8. How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process in our town? 

I would like to see us expand our electronic engagement via the internet, computers, texting, smartphones, etc. to allow citizens to weigh in on issues within our city.  Offer free internet service in all of our parks and public places.

9. If someone came to you with a proposal to build a new piece of public infrastructure in our city (road, bridge, etc.) how would you evaluate whether that project was worth implementing? 

First and foremost, weigh the economic impact on the city and simultaneously ask all stakeholders to weigh in on the project.  Garner as many public comments as possible about the project.

10. What neighborhood do you live in? 

I live in townhomes “Mainstreet at Cinnamon Crossings” 

Why?

  Value, Location.

11. Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town? 

When my kids were growing up in the parks, we spend hours with the kids playing in soccer, baseball, and volleyball leagues.  However, now since I am an avid Ice Hockey player I still love playing Ice Hockey at my home away from home the Panthers Ice Den.

Andy Kasten

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Nancy Metayer

 

1. What is your full name and what position are you running for?

Nancy Metayer, Coral Springs Commissioner, Seat 3.

 

2. Where are you originally from?  Why did you choose to move to this city/county/school district/state district?

I am originally from Coral Springs and a product of this community. I’ve called Coral Springs my home since I was 11 years old. What I appreciate most about Coral Springs is its distinct culture. 

 

-How long have you been here?

My family and I have called Coral Springs our home for 23 years.

 

3. Why are you running for this position? 

I started my advocacy journey in 2010 after witnessing the cholera epidemic in Haiti; people were dying because they did not have access to clean water. From that moment on, I was committed to ensuring that everyone was and is treated fairly. By gaining a better understanding of how our government functions, I quickly realized how meaningful changes can happen through policy. I have been working across different levels of our government to make changes for the better.

After gaining several years of experience, I made the decision to run for Commissioner of our beautiful city because there is no community I believe in more.

The challenges we face here are apparent. How do we accommodate our growing population? How do we develop in an environmentally sustainable way? How do we keep everyone safe? I am ready to tackle these issues along with the many other concerns that I hear about from my neighbors. Coral Springs needs an experienced, bold and unrelenting leadership, or we run the risk of falling behind and missing out on opportunities to maintain and grow the vibrant quality of life we all enjoy.

My perspectives as a lifelong resident and an experienced advocate are an opportunity to bring the commission and our community together to create a Coral Springs that benefits all of us.

 

-Have you run in the past? 

I ran for Mayor in the 2019 Coral Springs Special Election. Elections were held on March 12, 2019. With only 8,098 voters, I came in second with 2,290 votes in a 4-way. 

 

4. If elected, what is your first point of action? Why? 

During my first 90 days, I will continue cultivating relationships with neighbors and city staff. Community building is crucial because it’s how I’ll ensure I’m doing the job I was elected to do. I will hold virtual conversations and office hours so I am always connected to the issues in Coral Springs. I will listen and turn needs into solutions. Second, I will work on building a COVID-19 task force to assist residents and business owners with resources needed to build back lives post coronavirus. Lastly, I will begin drafting a plan that moves our city towards decreasing its dependency on fossil fuels meaning a cleaner and safer environment for us all. 

 

5. What mission do you feel most passionate about? Why? 

For as long as I can remember, I have been drawn to public service. At Coral Springs Charter School, I accumulated over 200 volunteer hours, volunteered in local campaigns, and participated in many community initiatives. At Florida A&M University, where I studied Environmental Science, I was introduced to the many environmental issues that harmed our communities. After college, I knew I wanted to apply my passion for social justice to my future career. I’ve worked with elected officials for over a decade supporting and implementing policies, which promote fair and just societies at the local, state, and federal levels. I have served at the FL House of Representatives, the US Senate, and the White House. My most valuable qualification is that I have been working in my community and communities around South Florida for years and I understand the issues of everyday people, and I truly care about making life better.

 

6. Where do you feel our city needs improvement? Why? 

The challenges Coral Springs faces are apparent. First, we must find ways to accommodate our growing and aging population. We are quickly running out of space for our seniors in the city and unless we purchase a new property, and upgrade our current facilities we will be faced with a crisis.

Second, we must continue our development with environmental sustainability in mind and figure how we will keep ourselves safe. Our city is growing and the long-term effects of climate change will not skip us. I want to invest in ways to make our city more resilient. With experienced, bold, and unrelenting leadership, I am ready to tackle these issues with my neighbors in Coral Springs.

 

7. Where do you feel our city stands above the rest? Why?

Coral Springs celebrates much strength with its diverse population. With 37% of the population speaking a second language, beautiful parks where families can come together, and our outstanding Performing Arts Center & Museum we have a lot of things to offer our members in the community, 

 

8. How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process in our town? 

Ongoing conversations. I want to ensure that I am always keeping an open line of communication. 

 

9. If someone came to you with a proposal to build a new piece of public infrastructure in our city (road, bridge, etc.) how would you evaluate whether that project was worth implementing? 

If someone proposed to build public infrastructure in our city, I would evaluate whether that project is worth implementing by: 

• Environmental standards: I want to ensure infrastructure is resilient, LEED-certified, the ability to implement solar energy and green spaces.

• Community Benefits Agreements (CBA):  Ensure negotiations are made between community members and/or coalitions of community groups. Common CBA benefits have living-wage provisions, local hiring plans, guarantees that developments will include affordable housing, and assurances of minority hiring minimums. Because agreements are negotiated between community coalitions and interested developers, the benefits can be tailored to meet specific community needs i.e. infrastructure updates, new parks, etc.

• Budget: Want to ensure that new infrastructure will not cause a financial burden to the members of our community. 

• Setting ethical expectations.

 

10. What neighborhood do you live in? Why?

My family and I currently live in the Westview Estates neighborhood. I remember our family falling in love with this particular neighborhood in 1999 when we decided this is where we would purchase our new home. Our neighbors are welcoming and our neighborhood is filled with many cultures offering memorable experiences. 

 

11. Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town? 

I enjoy spending time in Coral Springs parks. My favorite park, in particular, is North Community Park because of the walk and biking trail, soccer fields, basketball, tennis, and volleyball court. Our parks serve as places for recreation, mediation, and where we can celebrate nature. 

Nancy Metayer

 

*Abel Pena is also running for the District 3 seat in Coral Springs. Due to unforeseen circumstances, he was unable to send his answers in time.*

To further assist our readers in making educated decisions when voting in November, we have sent a list of questions to each candidate running for the District 5 Commissioner of Coral Springs, FL. 

Joy Lynn Carter (Incumbent)

1. What is your full name?

Joy Lynn Carter

 

2. Where are you originally from?

Born in Boise Idaho, left California for South East Asia for 6 years, and then back to California before moving to Florida from Las Vegas, NV in 1983.

 

-Why did you choose to move to your city?

Married with kids on the way and heard about the small, safe town with good schools. Sounded perfect to me and has been!

 

-How long have you been here?

I have lived in Coral Springs for 35 years.

 

3. Why are you running for this position?

To complete a 10-year commitment that I made to serve the residents of Coral Springs with passion, commitment to excellence, and heart.

 

-Have you run in the past?

Elected 2014 as City Commissioner, re-Elected 2016, unopposed, and appointed Mayor Pro-Tempore and Vice-Mayor 2018-2020.

 

4. If elected, what is your first point of action?

I will expand our video conversations to assist with making mental health service options readily available for residents and aide first responders on finding a good balance with residents in this tumultuous environment.

 

-Why?

Stress and discontent as well as fear are at all-time highs, with the uncertainty that we live with COVID.

5. What mission do you feel most passionate about?

Currently, the seniors that are choosing to age in place and making Coral Springs a destination city.

 

-Why?

Like me, they moved here to raise their families and now are empty nesters, but still have lots of life in them. I’m working on an AARP program called – Age-Friendly, but if you think about it…if it is good for a wheelchair, it is good for a stroller. As for the destination, stay tuned!

 

6. Where do you feel our city needs improvement?

Infrastructure and Neighborhoods

-Why?

Infrastructure is over 50 years old and is up to replacement. Many neighborhoods are overgrown and need a facelift. We are working on a program called, “Neighborhoods of Integrity that we hope in partnerships we can create pride and maybe even a little competition.

 

7. Where do you feel our city stands above the rest? Why? 

 Award-winning in being proactive and first-rate first responders that are frequently benchmarked as leaders.

 

8. How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process in our town?

As I have done for the last 6 years. Letting them know any plans, asking for suggestions and input.

I attend just about every city event for interaction.

 

9. If someone came to you with a proposal to build a new piece of public infrastructure in our city (road, bridge, etc.) how would you evaluate whether that project was worth implementing?

By examining the immediate impact on residents but giving more weight to the future benefits because no one likes inconvenience but sometimes we need, “a little” to get to the great parts!

10. What neighborhood do you live in?

Cypress Glen, SW Coral Springs. Why? My kids and I choose this area because they liked the name and look of the elementary school, 30 years ago. (I had already narrowed it down to the 2 best, so I gave them a choice)

11. Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town?

Coral Springs Country Club Golf Course on Sundays after brunch at many local restaurants with Mom and my best friend. Mom’s favorite is, “Big Bear!’

Joy Lynn Carter

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Cathy Natalie Remy

 

1. What is your full name and what position are you running for? 

Cathy Natalie Remy Coral Springs City Commissioner Seat 5.

 

2. Where are you originally from?

• Miami Gardens, Fl.

-Why did you choose to move to this city/county/school district/state district? How long have you been here? 

I chose Coral Springs because it was more than just me. It was about the city that would provide the best suitable environment and culture to create memories with my family. We have been in this lovely city of Coral Springs for almost 3 years now.

3. Why are you running for this position?

Becoming a voice and streamlining those issues that are priorities to the city of Coral Springs is why I am in this race. However, I do not view this as running against others, rather, as running towards my divine assignment, which is to represent, and diligently devote my efforts to regenerate our city in areas where these unforeseen circumstances have weakened us, and steadily move us in the direction that promotes oneness, hope, community, family & faith.

 

-Have you run in the past?

No, I have not. 

 

4. If elected, what is your first point of action?

What is at the forefront of everyone’s mind is the well being of our community. 

The Economic development for Coral Springs has been impacted over the recent months due to the pandemic. Although we cannot move beyond our current reality at this time, it behooves us to adopt a proactive approach regarding immediate intervention and strategic planning solutions that will engender future economic growth for small businesses and the constituents of this city. 

 

5. What mission do you feel most passionate about? Why?

A topic that has not drawn much attention in this campaign is the psychological wellbeing of our students prior to, and after returning to school as it relates to this current pandemic.

Many children have been impacted by COVID-19 in one way, shape, or form. Some have lost nucleus or distant relatives. Close family members hospitalized, and even the experience of having to be quarantined from loved ones can have an emotional toll on our youth. Limited social interaction, stressors of the pandemic, anxieties surrounding e-learning can all produce hypersensitive emotional responses, and possibly PTSD. We should begin to implement wellbeing check-in through school counselors, virtual social interaction, as well as preparing teachers, and counselors during back time school transition, to identify behaviors, or challenges that stem from this most challenging time.

 

6. Where do you feel our city needs improvement? Why? 

An area where our city needs improvement, taking into account that we remain afloat from the COVID insult, is housing affordability. We are to take the approach of influencing housing affordability through the supply of available houses, easing planning restrictions, and government policy. It has been projected that with the rise in the value of Coral Springs homes, moderate-income level homes will be limited. We have great people that serve our lovely community and would desire nothing more than to call it home, but they can not purchase property due to rising costs. Let’s ensure housing is affordable, without impacting housing valuation for our current homeowners negatively.  

 

7. Where do you feel our city stands above the rest? Why?

Coral Springs is a city where the importance of family is upheld. It is a city where neighbors still greet you, and smiles are often worn even in this hour. It is a place where excellency, innovation, & integrity is the standard. There have been events to promote cohesiveness and a sense of community. Coral Springs is where opportunities are created for the well being of the community and the focus is on building a legacy, and a place for our children to call home. 

 

8. How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process in our town?

The voice of our community matters. 

 The best way to involve residents in the decision-making process in our town is to foster a culture of approachability, limiting barriers and encouraging openness which allows the residents of Coral Springs to voice their concerns, affording them the opportunity for their input to be weighed in the final decision.  I plan to invite the residents of Coral Springs to reach out to me as it is my responsibility when elected as City Commissioner to have open communication. I will be available for virtual meetings during the pandemic, as well as in-person meetings once we return to norms.  I also will ensure that my contact information, such as email & office number, is made public. 

9. If someone came to you with a proposal to build a new piece of public infrastructure in our city (road, bridge, etc.) how would you evaluate whether that project was worth implementing?

When determining whether public infrastructure is worth implementing, the value of the project will be contingent on the city’s current needs and whether this proposal for public infrastructure supports our city’s economic, social, and environmental goals. This would require reviewing reliable data & analytics, as well as designs and financial models. 

 

10. What neighborhood do you live in?

Ramblewood

-Why?

Ramblewood is largely a single-family home community, with luxurious amenities and a great school, that perfectly displays the core vision of the city of Coral Springs, as a premier community in which to live, work and raise children.  I viewed the listing of our home in Ramblewood a few times as it sat on the market. When the time approached to begin the search for our home, I imagined it was likely sold or off the market. To our surprise, it was still available and awaiting us to make our bid. it’s a 4-bedroom home with a fireplace that immediately caught my attention. This house spoke to me and was the gateway to calling this city home. 

 

11. Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town?

There are multiple places I enjoy frequenting in Coral Springs, from the tasteful diverse restaurants to the movie theaters, to our city parks. I also enjoy the Florida Panthers Ice den for ice skating, walks in our Ramblewood community, but mostly I admire the city’s fun in the sun gathering where the community comes together and look forward to that time when we can gather once again. 

Cathy Natalie Remy

 

To further assist our readers in making educated decisions when voting in November, we have sent a list of questions to each candidate running for the School Board of Broward County.

Debra Hixon

1. What is your full name and what position are you running for?

Debra Hixon, Broward County at Large School Board Seat.

2. Where are you originally from? 

I was born and raised in Hollywood FL and have lived in the same house my whole life. 

 

3. Why are you running for this position? 

Two years ago, my husband Chris Hixon was a victim of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas murders.  He was a beloved coach and died trying to save students.  After the shooting, I became an activist and spokesperson on reducing gun violence and school safety, working with Stand With Parkland to lobby our state and national leaders to pass laws for safer schools, responsible firearm ownership, and better mental health services. I have also reached out to the Broward County School Board members and Superintendent Runcie to work with them to make stronger policies and procedures for school safety within our district.  When I learned the At Large Seat would be open, I realized that with my 31 years of teaching experience in Broward Public Schools, my love for education, my desire to enhance school safety, teacher pay and respect, and my ability to bring stakeholders together, that I was the right person at this time to serve on the School Board countywide.

 

-Have you run in the past?

No, this is my first time running for office. 

 

4. If elected, what is your first point of action? 

Addressing the pandemic must be the number one priority at this time. Policies and procedures about PPE and social distancing must be created and shared with the community immediately.  Another priority is to secure the perimeter of schools to ensure they are safe from unwanted people getting in and preparing our students and staff for an active shooter emergency. We must also safeguard students and teachers from bullying and harassment and other health hazards such as mold and bad air quality. I would work with district staff to research these issues and work to address the problems and create a plan to resolve the issues.

-Why?

Safety and Security are my number one priority because if we don’t keep our students and staff safe at school and they don’t come home, nothing else matters. 

5. What mission do you feel most passionate about? 

I am passionate about making sure our public schools are providing and equitable and valuable education for all our students in the district. 

-Why?

I have been a teacher for 31 years and I am invested in the Broward County School System.  I know that our students and teachers are amazing and that they deserve a quality education that enables them to reach their full potential.  

 

6. How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process in our town?

I would hold Town Hall meetings and meetings at the local schools to reach out to the residents to listen to their concerns.  I would bring the concerns back to the School Board meetings and share the needs and issues with the other board members.  

 

7. Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town? 

I enjoy Pine Trails Park and the Equestrian Center. 

Debra Hixon

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Jeff Holness

 

1. What is your full name and what position are you running for?

Jeff Holness, Candidate for School Board of Broward County, At Large, Seat 9.

2. Where are you originally from? Why did you choose to move to this city/county/school district/state district? How long have you been here?

I migrated to the United States from Jamaica over 30 years ago with my family and have lived in Broward since. 

3. Why are you running for this position? Have you run in the past? 

I am running for School Board because I am deeply concerned about the future of children in Broward County and I strongly believe that being a longtime educator, a business owner and community leader, I have the right knowledge, right experience, the right educational background and the right attitude to create a brighter future for them. We are living in unprecedented times with so much ambiguities and uncertainties. Children have had to deal with the MSD tragedy including my two sons, who attend public schools in Parkland, the COVID 19 Pandemic and its’ impact on schools and communities all across Broward and so much more. Now more than ever we need someone with the right knowledge, experience, and education on our School Board who will foster an attitude of unity, cooperation and collaborative engagement to move our district forward and create a brighter future for our children. 

4. If elected, what is your first point of action? Why? 

Reopening of Schools Safely in the Period of Coronavirus and Providing Options to Parents. 

We must consider the safety of students, the logistics of parents’ schedule and availability as well as have a great focus on providing a high-quality education. When schools reopen physical locations, we must continue to provide options of both e-learning as well as on site. For parents choosing e-learning, the district will need to continue to improve its online delivery of instructions to provide a most enhanced e-learning experience so there is less dependency on parents’ involvement especially for English Language Learner Students and Students with various learning challenges and disabilities. There will need to be continued teacher/student contact, greater student educational and tech support services and access, continued teacher, student and parent training on using online learning, clear policies for online security, discipline, role, expectations etc, improve communication access among teachers, students, parents, leadership and school mental health personnel, and consistency across schools with grading, student assessments and assignments content and volume. 

The challenges going forward for on-site are keeping our students safe and continuing to deliver high quality instructions. We must ensure that there is input from all stakeholders including parents, teachers, staff, and students on all areas of safety and scheduling when we reopen the physical school sites. Upon reopening schools, I support policies and procedures to keep our children, parents, teachers and staff as safe as possible. For example, we must ensure social distancing, wearing of masks, sanitizing and cleaning daily, temperature checking and so forth. As a Kumon math and reading center business owner who has responded successfully to COVID-19 by transitioning my learning center to a vibrant enhanced online platform and also has plans and procedures in place for reopening the physical location shortly, I will be able to add value in this area in helping the district adapt and reopen safely and successfully.

 

5. What mission do you feel most passionate about? Why? 

I am very passionate about the district and schools effectively meeting the learning needs of our ESE children including our children with learning disabilities and our gifted students. There are over 32, 000 students with learning disabilities in Broward County Schools. Their learning outcomes can be negatively affected when accommodations are inadequate or are not properly implemented. There are many students in Broward County Schools whose disabilities are not identified for various reasons including many parents not being knowledgeable of the processes and benefits of evaluating their children so appropriate accommodations can be given. In some instances, the schools may not be reasonably proactive in identifying students with learning disabilities. I will work to ensure that as a school district we provide a high-quality education for our students with learning disabilities. This includes students with ADD/ADHD (Attention Deficit and/or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), SLD (Specific Learning Disabilities such as Dyslexia), DHH (Deaf or having difficulty hearing students), SI (Speech Impairment), LI (Language Impairment), VI (Visual Impairment) and others.

 I am also passionate about addressing mental health issues in children. Mental Health problems significantly affect students’ ability to realize their full potential. The State of Florida lags way behind in the amount of interest and funding provided to address mental health issues affecting our children. I will place great emphasis on identifying and working on mental health issues affecting our youth in Broward County Schools. I support increasing the number of health professionals in our schools including psychologists, guidance counselors, and family therapists to work effectively with students affected by mental health issues.  I also support and embrace a collective approach in engaging other community agencies and municipalities to work collaboratively on issues of mental health affecting our students.

6. Where do you feel our city needs improvement? Why? 

While the School District has made significant gains in students’ success and overall learning outcomes, the district needs to work diligently to expedite the Renovation aspect of the SMA”R”T bond. As an individual with a strong business background, owning and operating a very successful Kumon Math and Reading center in Coral Springs, I will bring my skills in business to the table and work with the district to ensure that we are spending wisely and moving these projects forward to completion.

  

7. Where do you feel our city stands above the rest? Why? 

Broward County School District being the 2nd largest in the State of Florida stands above the rest of the other Florida School Districts in many areas as follows:

1. 1. 1. It is the largest school district to offer scholastic chess to all 2nd grade students

      2. It has the largest debate program in the country with more than 15, 000 students competing

      3. It has the largest JROTC in the nation with 29 programs in place

      4. The district earned the most industry certification in the State of Florida outperforming other districts by 14%

      5. First district in the state to receive the Cambridge District of the Year distinction 

      6. And much more

 

8. How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process in our town?

We must involve the community through survey and other mediums to get their input on  major items that are significantly impactful. I believe residents input is very essential in the decision-making process. I will seek and value the input of our residents on important issues that affect communities. Seeking the input of residents helps me to better meet the needs of our residents. 

9. What neighborhood do you live in? Why?

I currently live in the city of Sunrise, a city that is very diverse with wide range of amenities.

 

10. Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town? 

I like looking out at the Everglades at sundown with my sons. I also like visiting the several beaches in our County.

Jeff Holness