Why I’m running for Council

OK! I’m going to do it!

I will be filing the necessary documents to offer myself for a seat on the Village Council this November.

I really didn’t think I would do this again. But I’ve come to the realization that it’s difficult to get the Village Council’s attention on many issues that I believe are important and that have not been properly addressed over the past eight years or so.

Over the coming weeks, I’ll explain in more detail what I mean and, more importantly, what I believe we can do to make things better.

One of my biggest commitments is to become the most accessible Council member this Village has ever had. I plan to establish regular times when I will personally be available to discuss whatever is on your mind regarding our Village. Whether we agree or disagree, you’ll always know I’ll listen, explain my views, and change my mind when the facts warrant it.

I believe we live in one of the absolute best places anywhere to call home. But I also believe we can make it even better, and that maintaining a community like ours requires constant attention, accountability, and hard work.

As all of you who read my posts know, I have been very unsatisfied with the performance of Village Management and Administration for quite some time. We pay a lot in taxes, and we should expect responsive, efficient, and accountable municipal government.

I also believe that, in recent years, the Village Council has too often stepped back from its responsibility to set policy. The Council’s job is to establish the policies that reflect the will of the community. Village Management’s job is to carry out those policies effectively. I believe restoring that balance is one of the most important things we can do.

This campaign won’t be about personalities or politics. It will be about good governance, accountability, transparency, and making Key Biscayne the very best it can be.

I need your help.

Please share your thoughts with me—either publicly or by direct message. Tell me what’s working, what isn’t, and what ideas you have for making our Village even better. I genuinely want to hear from everyone.

Finally, I hope to earn your vote.

My goal is that every person casting a ballot for Village Council will feel comfortable voting for me. And if, for any reason, you don’t think you can support me, I ask one favor: please reach out and tell me why. I may not change your mind, but I promise I’ll listen. Your perspective will make me a better candidate and, I hope, a better Council member.

I look forward to this conversation, and I hope you’ll join me.

Regards,

Luis F de la Cruz.