After oath-taking in November, Miami Lakes will have two new council members: Juan Carlos "J.C." Fernandez and Steven Herzberg.
The new politicians won their first seats on the dais after no one opposed them during the town’s election qualifying period that ended at noon on Aug. 7.
“I’m feeling a little surprised, it’s not the way I expected it, but it’s a win,” said Herzberg, 34, an attorney who won Seat 5. “I am looking forward to serving the town.”
Fernandez was excited about his win, a day after serving at his final Planning and Zoning Board meeting. He turned 53 on the day he won Seat 3.
“I’m excited, it’s an honor,” said Fernandez, a Realtor. “Sincerely, I’m honored.”
Both Fernandez and Herzberg will take their oaths in November and begin their terms on Nov. 6.
They are replacing Council members Marilyn Ruano and Luis Collazo, who are term-limited.
Though both men said they are ready to start serving the town, they already have plans.
Herzberg, who had to resign from the Blasting Advisory Board to run for council, said he will continue fighting for residents on that issue.
“The [sunshine] meeting we had in June [about] pushing the council to take action [on blasting], I’m going to push that and work with Councilman [Bryan] Morera to get that done,” Herzberg said.
He also wants to get residents more involved in local government, something he discussed with voters while on the campaign trail.
Fernandez wants to focus on the town’s curb appeal and trying to keep Miami Lakes beautiful.
“Our public spaces and straight aways need some work,” Fernandez said. “I want to get with staff to see what we can [do] …”
Both men said they are thankful for the backing and donations they have received, despite running unopposed for their races.
“I thank everybody who has been with me and supported me,” Fernandez said.
Herzberg said he appreciated the good will he received from neighbors.
“To the people that supported me, thank you,” Herzberg said. “To the residents, I am going to be accessible as much as possible.”
Herzberg welcomed residents to contact him via his website: www.stevenformiamilakes.com.
Candidates who must wait until Election Day on Nov. 5 to see if they win their races are:
Councilman Josh Dieguez, Vice Mayor Tony Fernandez and business owner Yuniett Gonzalez who are all vying for the mayor’s seat. Incumbent Mayor Manny Cid is campaigning for county mayor against incumbent Daniella Levine Cava.
The contest for Seat 1 has candidates Mario O. Pinera Jr. and Angelo Cuadra Garcia.
Candidate forums may happen on dates to be announced by the town.