The event was held at the Heart of West Lakes Wellness Center on Tampa Avenue.
Former Orange and Osceola State Attorney Monique Worrell hosted the event. Questions were prepared beforehand and all candidates were asked the same questions. The six qualified candidates answered the questions in front of a packed room.
Former Orange and Osceola State Attorney Monique Worrell hosts District 5 candidate forum. Photo: Rhetta Peoples
When asked about the support of small businesses within the district, former State Representative Travaris McCurdy said he is experienced in that realm. McCurdy said he currently works for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) which manages the Orlando International Executive Airport. “I would like to see the City of Orlando do a LDB or a Local Developing Business program which will allow carve-outs for certain projects to go straight to local and minority small-owned businesses.”
Cameron Hope, a local businessman is also vying for the empty seat on the commission. Hope said, “My duty is to be responsible and dedicated to the constituents in District 5. The six districts and District 5 needs representation down at City Hall.”
Former Miss America, Erica Dunlap is also in the race. She reminded the audience that this race is for an interim role. Dunlap said, “None of us really know what we will be able to accomplish once in that seat. However, I think it’s most important that we focus in on listening to residents.”
Local activist and business owner Lawanna Gelzer has run several elections in Orlando. She said the community must be heard. Gelzer said, “Listening to the needs of the community is the most important thing. But then it’s implementation. We can listen, but we need to implement and make sure we’re getting the funding necessary for our community.”
Activist Miles Mulrain believes the roles of a commissioner do not stop with working with others at City Hall. “The duties of the commissioner, just like the people who formerly mentioned (sic), is not only to be a connection to the streets, a connection to the community but also to be somebody who delegates what’s happening in the district.”
Shaniqua “Shan” Rose said she has been endorsed by labor union LiUNA. “I’ve been endorsed by the union because they believe in me and I stand by the people, not only the people of this district but the people who work to keep this city beautiful.”
All candidates said they currently live in the District and are ready to serve.
The commission seat is open because Governor Ron DeSantis removed Regina Hill from her role as commissioner after Hill was charged with three counts of exploitation of elderly, mortgage fraud, scheme to defraud and two counts of fraud impersonation. Hill plead not-guilty to the charges.
Election Day for the City of Orlando, District 5 commissioner’s race will be held on May 21st.
