UEL Board Member, Albert Harum-Alvarez is running for office!
We were surprised when we read it in the Miami Herald yesterday:
Now, more fresh faces are starting to pop up. For Sorenson’s seat, they include Homestead businesswoman Pam Gray, Palmetto Bay Mayor Eugene Flinn and software-design consultant Albert Harum-Alvarez.
If you haven’t heard of these people, it’s not because they’ve been making themselves scarce. Harum-Alvarez, for example, has been active in a wide range of community issues for more than a decade. Among other things, he helped plan the concept for a downtown Kendall.
A SERIOUS REALITY
“I’ve been doing community work for free for 15 years,” he says, “so a $6,000 [commissioner's] salary would be a raise for me.”
Harum-Alvarez, who has yet to file the paperwork to run for Sorenson’s seat, is joking, but he represents a serious reality: talented local leaders — from municipal mayors to community activists — rarely have a realistic shot at a county-wide platform.
We wish Albert well and the other candidates in the race.
I just wanted to say that I really enjoyed yesterday's program. Thank you Greg and Albert for organizing another successful program. As well as Fran and Jennifer for the invitation and FB invite, and to all of us for getting the word out in our capacity. I know it's a lot of work to organize a program, Sarah and I are realizing that as we put together our Energy Program in April.
That was the most I've heard Mayor Regalado speak, and really felt like I understood him a lot more personally and professionally through Greg's excellent interview skills. Perhaps we can share our thoughts on the program at the next board meeting or on our blog. Overall, it's important to get to know the individuals who are leading our city.
Thank you,
As for Albert Harum-Alvarez jumping into the race, I couldn’t think of a better candidate who would represent the citizens of his district and the county at whole!
I met Albert through the UEL, and had the opportunity of visiting his beautiful home, which was designed and built with energy conservation in mind, along with embracing the natural climate of our unique S FL environment. He did an incredible job explaining the structure and details of his home, and shared his experience of building a green home in Miami Dade County.
I believe Albert has the knowledge and experience to continue the sustainable initiatives and efforts of Commissioner Sorenson, along with addressing the countless problems and helping to reshape the negative image our county has. We need intelligent individuals like him representing us, who will strive to bring a better quality of life for all citizens of Miami Dade.
UEL wishes him the best of luck.