For Seat Five: Luis Collazo said he decided to run for political office because as a committed member of this community, “I have proven my leadership through service.”“I have served as chairman of the town’s Elderly Affairs  Committee and as president of the Celebration Point Condominium Association,” he said. “Public service is delivering on my commitment to continuing to serve my community. Serving...

Before Miami Lakes’ incorporation 16 years ago, resident Sean Schwinghammer said the community was mired in an uphill battle against Miami-Dade County’s plan to increase the height of a landfill west of 1-75.Schwinghammer, a member of the now defunct Miami Lakes Community Council, said the town didn’t stand a chance until his colleague, Michael Pizzi, took on a leadership role to stymie the expansion, which could have...

The Mayoral Race: Manny Cid, who’s the cash cow in fundraising with $65,460, said he decided to run for political office for a second time to continue with his duties but this time as mayor of Miami Lakes.“I first ran in 2012 to reform government which I have accomplished via performance based budgeting, live webcasting of town council meetings and placing our contracts and check book online,” he said. “I’ve...

Next week, Miami Lakes residents flock to the polls to elect a mayor and three council members to represent the town for the next four years. On November 8, incumbent Mayor Michael Pizzi, 53, faces two challengers, Councilmember Manny Cid, 33, and former mayor Wayne Slaton, 65, the face of Miami Lakes’ incorporation movement.For Seat One, Councilmember Nelson Rodriguez, a 47-year-old Coral Gables firefighter, is facing attorney Alex...

Miami Lakes Police Officer Michele Figueroa was recognized as Officer of the Quarter during the October 4 Town Council meeting for her dedication to duty, teamwork, and a high degree of initiative. During May, the Town experienced a rise in vehicle burglaries. Eager to safeguard the community, Figueroa increased her presence in the area with proactive directed patrols. She conducted several traffic stops and completed several field interview...