The City of North Miami Beach is moving forward with plans for a special election to fill the mayoral vacancy, scheduling it for October 10, 2023. This decision was made during the July 20, 2023, Commission Meeting, where city officials discussed the timeline and logistics surrounding the election.

Commissioner Smith emphasized the urgency of the election, noting that the city has been in communication with the Miami-Dade County Supervisor of Elections to ensure the process moves swiftly. The qualifying period for candidates will run from August 2023, with specific hours set for residents to register. The resolution also mandates that the city clerk will oversee the election's administrative aspects.

However, the meeting was not without contention. Some commissioners raised concerns about the transparency of the process, particularly regarding the availability of documentation related to the election. Commissioner Jean expressed frustration that the resolution was not posted online in a timely manner, which he felt hindered public access to important information. This led to discussions about the need for better communication and documentation practices in the future.

The city attorney clarified that the October 10 date was the earliest possible option provided by the Supervisor of Elections, adhering to the city charter's requirements for filling vacancies. The charter stipulates that a special election must occur no less than 35 days and no more than 90 days after a vacancy arises, which in this case, necessitated the October date.

Despite the challenges, the commission is committed to ensuring that the election proceeds as planned. The discussions highlighted the importance of transparency and public engagement in local governance, with officials acknowledging the need for improved communication with residents regarding election processes and timelines.

As the city prepares for the upcoming election, officials are hopeful that it will provide a clear path forward for leadership in North Miami Beach, addressing the community's needs and concerns.