Karyn Cunningham is running for the office of Mayor of Palmetto Bay.
Councilmember Cunningham was elected to Seat 1 on Nov. 4, 2014. A native of Miami-Dade County and a graduate of Miami Palmetto Senior High, Cunningham graduated cum laude from the University of South Florida in 1985 and holds certification in Elementary Education and Psychology. She received her Urban Education Certification from Florida International University in 1987. Cunningham and her family have lived in the Village of Palmetto Bay since 1995. She has one daughter, Megan.
All candidates were asked the following questions:
If elected, what would you do in the first 100 days?
“We need to shift our focus to one that is resident and community centric. I will promote a respectful resident-focused government culture in which input is welcomed and valued. I will implement real-time, multimodal transportation solutions so that our community has alternatives to automobiles. I will facilitate partnerships with community stakeholders to attract new businesses that are compatible with the character of Palmetto Bay while working to retain existing businesses in our area that are the backbone of economic development and resident enjoyment. I will personally engage external resources and policy support from other governmental agencies such as Miami-Dade and the State of Florida to enhance Palmetto Bay priorities.”
What motivated you to run for office?
“I first ran for office because of the disconnect between village government and the everyday needs and concerns of Palmetto Bay residents. While my voice has been a beacon for resident-driven issues, I have found that not all of my colleagues share the same outlook. We need to recreate a true sense of community by building consensus and restoring the voice of our residents to Village Hall.”
Why do you think you would be the best candidate for the position?
“I am running for mayor of Palmetto Bay because I have the leadership qualities necessary to make the right choices to protect and improve the lives of all Palmetto Bay families. I am proud of my record of accomplishments focused on our residents: voting against the needless 485 development that will increase traffic in an area that lacks transit options and is not designed for density, the Age Friendly Community Initiative, supporting the preservation of our history through our Heritage Taskforce, as well as the creation of our Opportunities Campaign to create meaningful opportunities for persons with disabilities.
“Moreover, I am proud to be working with local businesses to engage residents in community projects to assist our schools and our environment, initiating “Safe School Zones” prior to the state mandate, and bringing real-time transit solutions like our ‘IBus Park and Ride.’
“Like most residents, I have made Palmetto Bay my home because of its natural beauty and its tranquil way of life. I am ready, willing and able to continue making the right choices on behalf of our families as your next mayor — to ensure that Palmetto Bay continues to be a great place to live, work, learn, and play.”
— Gary Alan Ruse
