While we all know there’s a presidential election this coming November, it’s also important to remember that we have important City elections then as well.
The City of Tamarac is divided into four Commission Districts (Districts 1, 2, 3 and 4), with one City Commissioner who lives in each district. The Mayor of the City of Tamarac is elected on an at-large (City-wide) basis.
This year, we will be voting for District 1 and District 3 commissioners.
Election Day is Tuesday, November 3
If you haven’t registered to vote, the deadline to register as a first-time voter is 29 days prior to the election date. To register or check your voter registration status, visit www.registertovoteflorida.gov. You can also learn more about Broward voting, including voter registration, check your own voter status and much more on the Broward County Supervisor of Elections website at https://www.browardsoe.org/.
Current City of Tamarac Commission:
- Mayor – Michelle J. Gomez
- District 1 – Vice Mayor Marlon Bolton
- District 2 – Mike Gelin
- District 3 – Julie Fishman
- District 4 – Debra Placko
You can find out more about our Mayor and each of our Commissioners on the City website at https://www.tamarac.org/1010/City-Commission.
Candidate Qualifying Takes Place from June 8 to June 12
By Florida law, candidates have one week during which they can file their paperwork to run for the Commission. This year, candidate qualifying for the District 1 and District 3 seats begins on Monday, June 8, 2020 at noon, and closes at exactly noon on Friday, June 12, 2020.
As of May 27, 2020, there are two candidates who have filed in District 1: Current Commissioner and Vice Mayor Marlon Bolton, and Michelle Jones. One candidate has filed in District 3: Current Commissioner Julie Fishman.
Why Local Elections Matter
While the Presidential election is certainly important, our day-to-day quality of life is often impacted by our current Commission. Local elections are critical to the health and well-being of any city, and Tamarac is no exception.
Tamarac’s FY 2020 adopted budget is nearly $197 million. Wow! Voting in the City election is an important way to make sure that your voice is heard; our leaders make important budget decisions that impact us in ways big and small.
Voter Turnout is High in Tamarac
In the November 2016 election, nearly 74% of eligible voters in Tamarac cast their ballot. This is a little higher than Broward County’s turnout of nearly 72% and much better than the national turnout of just over 61% (note that while the Broward County and Tamarac percentages are exact tallies of voters, the national percent is the U.S. Census estimated based on voter reporting).
The Tamarac Post will keep you updated on any additional candidates who file to run for Commissioner once the qualifying period ends on June 12. In the meantime, be sure to register to vote and make your voice heard!
