I have vast community service and volunteer experience and will bring to the dais my personal experience as a mom, having raised two sons and a grand daughter. I know what it’s like to be the last one to pick up your child at aftercare.
I am, and have long been, passionate about good government and citizen involvement, and am thrilled and honored that I may have this opportunity to encourage others to consider public service in this way.
With 60% of the commission up for re-election in March and no permanent city manager in place, Deerfield Beach is in the ideal position of repositioning, of making great change and coming up with a community-driven big-picture plan that will protect our hometown feel.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me with your questions and ideas. Let’s speak in person. Learn about my ideas for business development, planning for our future, and ways to guide the city in a more positive, citizen-driven direction.
My Vision of the Future
As we celebrate Deerfield Beach’s 100th birthday, it’s time to look to the future.
Where is Deerfield Beach Headed in 2025 and Beyond?
Let’s ask ourselves - Where have we come from? Where are we now? Where are we going? To grow as a healthy city, the residents of Deerfield Beach need greater involvement in the direction we will take, greater interaction with city leadership and elected officials. Each resident should understand that their voice matters.
The Importance of the City Manager
I feel strongly that it is important to bring in a city manager from out of this area. Someone who has a track record of drawing out the public in the decision making process, who empowers their staff to be the best it can be, who is a resource to them, and who will look near and far to identify superstars.
Micro Loans for Small Business Growth
Offer micro loans for small businesses using Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding to grow small businesses in Deerfield Beach. Assisted by private and non-profit groups, explore the creation of a small business incubator with the assistance of private business and nonprofits.
Re-establish the Deerfield Beach Chamber of Commerce
hambers don’t need lofty offices. (Many years ago I worked out of Jim Shaw’s garage as director of the Oakland Park, Wilton Manors Chamber!) Let’s bring our business group back to Deerfield Beach. This will have the added benefit of taking the load off of the City’s CRA and Economic Development Divisions. As a manager looking in from the outside, they are given unrealistic goals with the resources allocated.
A Final Note…
I came to Century Village East after being with mom at the end of her life. When I returned to South Florida, I expected to semi-retire. You know, a little pickle ball, early birds, predictable community involvement, maybe a side-gig here or there. But I was quickly dissatisfied and kept seeing this note on my bulletinbulleting board. “Here is a test to tell when your mission on earth is over: If you’re alive, it isn’t.” I’ve had that note posted somewhere near me for decades. And with COVID hitting shortly after mom’s death, and at roughly the same time that I began collecting social security, I had time to think.