Now is the time to run for County Commissioner. By Geniusofdespair

The odd numbered districts are up for reelection. The primary is August 14 (really the election except if there is a runoff) so it is time to throw your hat in the ring. All 7 odd numbered Commissioners have opened campaign accounts.

Why should you run? Because it cost the lobbyists time and money. Pepe Diaz had a challenger in 2010 who raised $600. His machine raised $329,549 against her.  Esteban Bovo collected $316,200 in 2011 but his closest challenger only raised $1,150. Overkill? Yep. And I love it.

Why? Even if there is some token challenger, the lobbyists have to get their machine's working for their candidates. If there is no challenger the lobbyists only raise about $150,000 (2010: Sally Heyman & Rebeca Sosa). You force the lobbyists to spend MORE time raising money if you run. Secondly, the lawyers and developers have to dish out those funds. A third advantage of your running, we get to see who that politician is beholden to by the campaign reports and who has a grudge against the Commissioner (by their absence).  Those are the 3 main reasons why you should run against the Commissioners.  Here are the rules to run:

1. Qualified elector of Miami-Dade County.
2. Resident of Miami-Dade County at least three (3) years prior to qualifying.
3. Resident of District at least six (6) months prior to qualifying.

Money you will need:

Qualifying fee of $360.00 is to be paid by means of a bank check drawn from the candidate’s campaign account as prescribed in F.S. 106.11(1)(a), made payable to the Board of County Commissioners. (Filing fee of $300.00 plus an election assessment equal to 1% of the annual salary as of July 1 of the preceding year).

You only need the filing fee to kick the lobbyists into fundraising gear, $360! You can drop out by June 5th. That is when you have to give your financial disclosures, etc.

Make the lobbyist work hard: Run for office! There are 4 County Commissioners without any challengers.