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Opa‑locka charter review board recommends two‑year sit‑out after eight consecutive years
Summary
The City of Opa‑locka Charter Review Board voted 4–0 on March 5, 2026, to recommend that elected officials must have a two‑year break from service after eight consecutive years before seeking elective office again; the board debated whether special elections or appointments should count toward the eight‑year total and will forward the recommendation to the City Commission.
The City of Opa‑locka Charter Review Board voted unanimously on March 5, 2026, to recommend amending charter section 2.1.1 to require a two‑year sit‑out after an official has served eight consecutive years before becoming eligible to run again for mayor or commissioner.
Board members said the change is intended to make clear when an official has reached the charter’s two‑term limit and to open opportunities for new candidates. The board’s vote followed an extended discussion about whether service gained via a special election or by appointment should count toward the eight consecutive years.
The clerk summarized the board’s reading of the charter: “if by the end of your current term of office, you have completed eight consecutive years, then you’re subject to that term limit,” and explained that the charter currently requires a break in service but does not specify how long that break must be. The board’s attorney told members she agreed with the clerk’s reading and that the provision has been treated by courts as unambiguous.
During discussion, some members urged that time won through special election should count toward the eight consecutive years but argued appointments (filling a vacancy by commission action) should not be treated the same, because appointees were not elected. Other members warned that inserting rigid new rules about appointments could limit the commission’s discretion and create administrative or legal complications.
After debate, the board approved a motion to recommend a two‑year sit‑out period by roll call vote: Vice Chair Williams, Board member Bria, Board member Dennis and Chair Allen voted yes (4–0). The clerk and attorney will draft the exact amendment language for the board’s report to the City Commission and to comply with Miami‑Dade County election filing deadlines.
The board noted that a recommended charter change would next go to the City Commission for consideration and, if approved at the local level, would be subject to county election scheduling and any required ballot deadlines. The board also discussed holding a joint workshop with the commission to review the proposed language before final submission.
The board adjourned following additional housekeeping items and thanks to staff and legal counsel.
