The Nov. 4 elections for Cutler Bay Town Council are still a few months away, but one seat already has been filled officially.
Roger Coriat will be the new council member for Seat 3 because he is unopposed. The candidate qualifying period closed on Aug. 8 so no one else may enter the race at this time.
Known to many as a member of the town’s Education Advisory Committee, Coriat is currently a teacher in the Social Studies Department of John A Ferguson High School where he just started his ninth year. Additionally he is an adjunct instructor in the Social Sciences Department at Miami-Dade College’s Kendall Campus. He previously taught at Archbishop Coleman F. Carroll High School and has a Master of Arts in History from the University of Miami. “I am really looking forward to taking my place as a member of the Cutler Bay Town Council,” Coriat said in an interview.
“I am happy to succeed Peggy Bell, who has held this seat for the past eight years, and continue the commitment and dedication she and the rest of our town council have shown.”
Although his background primarily is in the field of education, he said that his goals once he takes office will cover a wide range of issues.
“One priority for me as a councilmember is to allow for responsible growth in our town,” Coriat said. “Cutler Bay has all the charms of a friendly, small town. We always want to attract residents and new businesses, and I think that can be done while still retaining the qualities of our town that our residents find so appealing.
“I will also be committed to environmental issues, making sure that our natural habitats remain intact, and curbing the harmful impact of pollution, invasive species, and other problems that threaten the beauty of South Florida.”
Coriat said that he welcomes the participation of all those who live in Cutler Bay and stresses how important it is to receive input from everyone.
“Civil discourse is crucial for a successful relationship between our town’s leaders, its residents, and the businesses and organizations that work with us,” Coriat said. “I encourage all our residents to become active members of our town, reach out to its leaders with confidence, and make their mark on Cutler Bay.”
