COMMISSIONER CANDIDATES - DISTRICT 3

Name: Robert Pipper

Campaign Website: robpiperheretoserve.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coral_way_dems/

Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office.

I am a retired Marine that has been living in the City of Miami since getting assigned to USSOUTHCOM in 2012. When I retired in 2016 I began serving in a different capacity: as a grassroots, political volunteer, activist, and organizer. I learned that volunteering is the only way to remove corruption out of local government and is the expression of civic participation and democracy. The ultimate of this is running for office. At the time, I was unsatisfied with the choices, so I became one.

Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami.

Well, I live in Miami so I suspect that the Biscayne Bay means to me what it means to the people of Surfside: A gem to be cherished. A source of pride that makes our cities the envy of the rest the country. A thing that is central to our economies and a natural resource that adds to our wealth.

There are many issues that impact the health of Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest ones, and how do you plan to address them?

For one thing, it has gotten way too warm (warmer than what it was when I first settled in Miami. Also, too many of the coral reefs and the wildlife in and around them are being lost due to these rising temperatures. What's worse, pollution from stormwater runoff and marine debris is leading to major seafood deaths and increasing algae blooms. 

Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

Through a combination of smart city planning, aggressive monitoring of our natural resources, and funding the necessary infrastructure and fixes to accommodate the population growth while protecting our natural resources. One of my campaign pillars is REVENUE & AFFORDABILITY which entails finding new ways to tap into Miami's wealth in order to raise the revenue to pay for this infrastructure.

Stormwater is a major carrier of pollutants from our streets into Biscayne Bay, including plastics and nutrients from organic material such as leaves and grass clippings. What actions will you champion to ensure that the water flowing from our streets is clean enough to enter the Bay?

Under my campaign pillars of CLIMATE RESILIENCY, I hope to work extensively with the City of Miami's Climate Resilience Committee for input on legislation I can introduce that will a) fund the infrastructure needed to ensure that our streets have better drainage, b) discourage the use of plastics, and c) help residents and businesses better dispose of their organic materials.

How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

We advocate for elected officials to pass legislation that will disincentive local businesses from using it and incentivize them to use alternatives. In addition, cities can use the social, economic, and political tools available to them to resist state government from standing in the way of these actions (another one of my campaign pillars is SOVEREIGNTY PROTECTION that resists this kind of state overreach).

When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

Through sustained grassroots engagement and an expansion of tools to make civic participation easier and more rewarding (another one of my campaign pillars is ENGAGEMENT TOOLS). We can also plan events where residents are inviting to partake in the Bay and create a sense of pride and ownership. And finally, we build coalitions of like-minded organizations, groups, residents, and elected officials.

Name: Rolando Escalona

Campaign Website:  https://www.escalonaformiami.com

Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office.

I am running for City of Miami Commissioner for District 3 because Miami has given me and my family so much, and I am committed to giving back to the community that shaped me. Born in Havana and having lived in Miami for over 11 years, I have worked in hospitality management and know firsthand the challenges our families face. Over the last three years, I’ve served as General Manager of a well-known Miami restaurant, where I learned the value of hard work, leadership, and accountability. I also earned a degree in International Relations & Political Science from Florida International University, equipping me with the knowledge to navigate complex policy issues. And I have accomplished all this through hard work and determination. This combination of management experience and academic training has prepared me to be an effective public servant who brings both practical solutions and a deep commitment to public service.

Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami.

Biscayne Bay is an important part of everyday life in Miami. I know how much this Bay means to families who fish, boat, and spend time along its shores. Biscayne Bay is also important to our economy, supporting tourism, real estate, and small businesses, while also being a fragile ecosystem that protects us from flooding and storm surge. Preserving the Bay is not just an environmental issue, it’s about protecting our culture, our economy, and our future as a city.

There are many issues that impact the health of Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest ones, and how do you plan to address them?

Among the biggest threats to Biscayne Bay are pollution from stormwater runoff and failing infrastructure. As commissioner, I will push for a comprehensive stormwater plan that reduces runoff into the Bay. As commissioner, I will request a detailed status of the Miami Forever Bonds and advocate for dedicated funding to modernize outdated sewer systems and ensure the enforcement of regulations that prevent illegal dumping and pollution. Protecting the Bay requires transparency and coordination.

Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

Balancing growth with environmental protection is one of Miami’s greatest challenges. We can welcome new residents and investment without sacrificing our natural resources by setting clear guidelines. Developers should incorporate green infrastructure, protect wetlands and coastal areas, and invest in resilient infrastructure that prepares Miami for the future.

Stormwater is a major carrier of pollutants from our streets into Biscayne Bay, including plastics and nutrients from organic material such as leaves and grass clippings. What actions will you champion to ensure that the water flowing from our streets is clean enough to enter the Bay?

We need to invest in the expansion of green infrastructure like bioswales and rain gardens that filter runoff before it reaches the Bay. I would advocate for stronger street cleaning programs, including regular collection of organic waste, to reduce pollutants entering storm drains.

How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

Plastics are one of the Bay’s most damaging pollutants, and we need to take action to reduce them. I support common-sense measures, such as expanding recycling and promoting more sustainable practices throughout our community. Education and accountability are also key, and we must work with residents, schools, and businesses to change habits while holding polluters responsible.

When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

Residents must be at the center of protecting our environment. As commissioner, I would support volunteers and partner with schools to make environmental education hands-on and accessible. When people feel ownership over their parks, streets, and waterways, they are more likely to protect them. Environmental stewardship works best when it is truly community-driven.

COMMISSIONER CANDIDATES - DISTRICT 5

Name:  Frederick Bryant

Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office.

I was born and raised in Miami. I care!

Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami.

It means a lot! The people, the environment. I am willing to listen and communicate.

There are many issues that impact the health of Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest ones, and how do you plan to address them?

The people and the environment! Communication!

Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

Listen to the concerns of residents and stakeholders.

Stormwater is a major carrier of pollutants from our streets into Biscayne Bay, including plastics and nutrients from organic material such as leaves and grass clippings. What actions will you champion to ensure that the water flowing from our streets is clean enough to enter the Bay?

Have workers to keep the area clean. Communicate.

How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

Workers! Communicate!

When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

Communicate!

MAYORAL CANDIDATES

Name: June E. Savage PA

Campaign Website:  Www.miamimayorsavage.com

Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office.

I am hometown candidate , wants to execute and make difference in our city infrastructure and waterways ( environment ) Having been born and raised here my father taught me about our ecology the plants animals and the natural waterways . No one has made difference who is elected or has been, I promise as an educated common sense resident , I will get the protect we need accomplished working with county and state.

Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami.

I paddle board, more importantly Matheson Hammock was a big part of my life with my father growing up . Our waterway barrier islands need help they are at a crisis point no return unless I can get in there with the local expertise and knowledge how to restore and delegate to unattached companies and local individuals whom all want our waterways safe and our marine life growing , We are not an artificial city, we need to act like our waterways and marine life come first along with residents. I am the right person to get this done.

There are many issues that impact the health of Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest ones, and how do you plan to address them?

Construction run off . If we increase and double the fines so that no one dares impose propbelms for the marine life , and continue to educate residents and travelers of the delicate water . Also , septic tanks, fertilizer, and no one NO ONE talks about the ONE sewage pipe that goes out 1-2 miles. Has NOT been replaced , extended or add another one. Thats just a start

Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

Developer environmental impact fees , I have been saying it all along . Benefit developers who use green building materials.

Stormwater is a major carrier of pollutants from our streets into Biscayne Bay, including plastics and nutrients from organic material such as leaves and grass clippings. What actions will you champion to ensure that the water flowing from our streets is clean enough to enter the Bay?

I am not going to say I have all the answers , but I will discover ways used across the globe and test them here. We have an infrastructure problem NO ONE ELECTED NOW OR PRIOR has dealt with . Our infrastructure is failing , if we have to delay development to ensure our waterways are protected , then so be it . We all have to work together and I will make sure its executed, NO ONE has done anything .

How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

I know there is run off screens , but education is key. PSA it starts at the school children level

When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

ENGAGING IN TOWN HALL MEETINGS WITH AGENDA OF ENVIRONMENT. We can make our city shine I promise

Name:  Eileen Higgins

Campaign Website:  eileen.miami

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9TAqV3g3ql0

Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office.

I’m running for Mayor because I want a city government that truly works for residents. On the County Commission, I’ve cut through bureaucracy to deliver results: building affordable housing, creating green spaces, reforming permitting, and supporting small businesses. My background as a Peace Corps Country Director, U.S. diplomat, and private sector leader shaped my solutions-oriented approach. I’ve been re-elected three times because people know I focus on results, not politics — and I’ll bring that proven leadership to City Hall.

Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami.

Biscayne Bay is at the heart of Miami’s environment, economy, and quality of life. I’ve led efforts to protect it, including banning single-use plastics in county facilities, passing Florida’s strongest fertilizer ordinance, and supporting the County Mayor in the creation of the Chief Bay Officer role. As Mayor, I’ll keep advancing pollution controls, invest in flood mitigation, and expand resident participation through composting, transit, and plastic-free initiatives. Protecting the Bay is protecting Miami’s future.

There are many issues that impact the health of Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest ones, and how do you plan to address them?

The biggest threats are plastic pollution, nutrient runoff, failing infrastructure, and poorly planned development. I’ve already acted with plastic bans, the fertilizer ordinance, septic tank disclosure rules, and sustainable building standards. As Mayor, I’ll strengthen city accountability, require green building practices, and engage residents in composting and plastic-free programs. My goal: growth that protects water quality and climate resilience.

Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

We have a housing crisis, but we can build affordably with strong climate resilience measures in place. I passed legislation requiring new county buildings — including housing — to meet green standards and withstand sea-level rise. I also invested in energy retrofits for schools and created nearly 7,000 affordable/workforce housing units. As Mayor, I’ll ensure development is sustainable, transit-oriented, and community-focused, so Miami grows without sacrificing its environment or livability.

Stormwater is a major carrier of pollutants from our streets into Biscayne Bay, including plastics and nutrients from organic material such as leaves and grass clippings. What actions will you champion to ensure that the water flowing from our streets is clean enough to enter the Bay?

I’ve already acted by banning plastics in county facilities, restricting fertilizer use in rainy season, and promoting composting to divert organic waste. As Mayor, I’ll expand green infrastructure, strengthen drainage and seawalls, and reduce pollutants at the source. Clean streets and smart design mean cleaner water flowing into Biscayne Bay.

How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

I fought powerful lobbyists to pass Miami-Dade’s plastic and styrofoam ban, and I’ll expand those efforts citywide. Transitioning to a plastic-free culture reduces waste, protects ecosystems, and builds resilience. I’ll keep working with residents, businesses, and policymakers to make a plastic-free Miami the norm.

When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

Sustainability works when residents feel ownership. I legalized community composting, expanded transit through the Better Bus Network and the South Corridor, and advanced plastic-free policies. As Mayor, I’ll scale these programs citywide — making it easy for residents to compost, use transit, and cut plastic. Environmental stewardship will be a collective effort where government leads, but every neighbor plays a part.

Name: Alyssa Crocker

Campaign Website: www.alyssaformiamicitymayor.com

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/alyssaformayor/

Tell us about yourself and why you are running for office.

I’m running for Mayor because Miami deserves relentless leadership. After losing my father to negligence at North Shore and raising two special-needs sons, I’ve fought powerful special interests through advocacy and won. I’ll bring that fight to City Hall—to end corruption, protect our Bay, expand housing, and give every community a voice.

Tell us what Biscayne Bay means to you and to the City of Miami.

Biscayne Bay is Miami’s heart—our economic engine, cultural identity, and natural treasure. For me it means family, community, and responsibility. Protecting the Bay protects our future: our jobs, our health, our environment, and the generations who deserve to enjoy its beauty.

There are many issues that impact the health of Biscayne Bay. What do you think are the biggest ones, and how do you plan to address them?

The Bay suffers from sewage leaks, fertilizer runoff, failing septic systems, and overdevelopment. I’ll invest Miami Forever Bond dollars into stormwater upgrades, enforce fertilizer and septic rules, expand tree canopy and green infrastructure, and—working with my environmental advisor, Mila Hoshino, international botanist and conservationist—use my proven advocacy track record to win state funding and partner with experts to restore wetlands so Biscayne Bay can thrive for generations.

Florida is booming, with thousands moving here every month. How do we balance growth and associated development while protecting our natural resources in both the near term and long term?

Florida’s growth is inevitable, but it must be sustainable. As mayor, I’ll ensure development protects Biscayne Bay and our wetlands, expand tree canopy, use P3s to reward green builders, and pair resilience with affordable housing. With my advocacy experience, I’ll work to secure state support so development strengthens communities while safeguarding Biscayne Bay long term.

Stormwater is a major carrier of pollutants from our streets into Biscayne Bay, including plastics and nutrients from organic material such as leaves and grass clippings. What actions will you champion to ensure that the water flowing from our streets is clean enough to enter the Bay?

I’ll modernize stormwater with filters, bioswales, and strict upkeep. With my proven advocacy wins and advisor Mila Hoshino’s expertise, I’ll work to secure state support, boost enforcement, and educate residents so clean water—not pollution—flows into Biscayne Bay

How do we keep plastics out of Biscayne Bay?

I’ll stop plastics at the source by expanding storm drain litter traps, native plant buffers, and recycling access. With advisor Mila Hoshino’s guidance, we’ll use conservation best practices while creating good local jobs for contractors who build and maintain these systems to keep Biscayne Bay clean.

When we talk about environmental stewardship, we are really talking about making our residents feel like this is their neighborhood and community. How do we engage the public and make them part of the solution?

I’ll engage residents through education, cleanups, and citizen science—making stewardship hands-on. Partnering with schools, nonprofits, and my environmental advisor, we’ll empower every community to protect Biscayne Bay and ensure every voice has a seat at the table.