Three seats on the Wilton Manors Commission are up for grabs in the Nov. 3 election and the campaigning has begun to heat up.
[Update: Carson is now running for mayor]
Two 4-year Commission seats, occupied by Tom Green and Julie Carson, and the Mayor’s 2-year seat, occupied by Justin Flippen are up for election. Green is not running for re-election and Flippen has not yet announced if he is running for re-election.
To date, incumbent Julie Carson and political newcomers Michael Bracchi and Chris Caputo have announced their intentions to run for Commissioner.
Here is our Q&A with Carson. Visit SFGN.com/WMelection2020 to read the other candidate profiles and for other Wilton Manors election news.
Julie Carson
Why have you decided to run for Commission?
I decided to run for re-election because I believe that my contributions to the City’s fiscal health, improved quality of life, economic vitality, and our culture of public service and care are critical to a successful standing of the Wilton Manors for the next four years.
What are your qualifications?
I am the recipient of numerous public service awards, including the Pride Center Alan Schubert Award of Excellenece, the 2016 Jamie Bloodworth Leadership Award, the 2015 Equality Florida Community Partner for Equality Award and the 2014 Trans-Equality Award for Service to the Community.
List your top issues of concern?
I take my cues from my constituents and the stakeholders of our City. They have indicated that a main concern is that we continue to diversify our economic base, and with the hiring of a new Economic Development Director, chart a path for our community that is fertile for supporting the right mix of businesses in all areas of the City, while still preserving our neighborhoods.
I am supportive of increased density and height in the appropriate area of the City, along with ushering in a boutique hotel. Providing adequate and affordable housing for those who want to live, work and play in our City is critical.
Continuing to address Climate Change and Sea Level Rise issues through thoughtful planning and partnership with neighboring cities and Broward County is essential to our safe future. Preserving, repairing and providing for infrastructure that supports our anticipated growth are crucial.
How long have you lived in the city?
I have lived in Wilton Manors nearly 18 years and currently rent a condo in the Central Area.
Are you in favor of term limits, why or why not?
Talk about your ideas for improving the city’s downtown business district?
The city now has an all-gay Commission. How will you serve ALL the city’s residents, since the majority of Wilton Manors’ residents are not gay?
As a City Commissioner, I am a servant to all residents, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, race, political affiliation, faith or otherwise. This is a demonstrated hallmark of my service!
Are you married, kids, partner, etc?
I am single with two wonderful dog children.
What is your profession?
There have been no conflicts of interest during my tenure on the Commission, and my employer is supportive of my public service.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
One of my greatest accomplishments was having the opportunity to be a foster parent to my 5-year old nephew. He attended each Commission Meeting with me, and my colleagues, city staff and administration helped me during this important and valuable time in my life. Truly, it takes a Village and Wilton Manors is my home.
Visit SFGN.com/WMelection2020 to read the other candidate profiles and for other Wilton Manors elections news.