MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. — There are three candidates who are running for a coveted commission seat in Miami-Dade County.

The county’s eighth district encompasses a big portion of southern Miami-Dade, including Homestead and Palmetto Bay.

Incumbent Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins is running against nonprofit CEO Martha Vega Hero and former Palmetto Bay Vice Mayor John Dubois.

“The top three issues facing south Dade and District 8 are traffic and transportation and continuing to provide real traffic solutions for the residents of South Dade and District 8,” said Cohen Higgins. “Additionally, affordability is top of mind for a lot of our residents.”

Cohen Higgins, who is a trial lawyer by trade, says her experience looking at details makes her an effective leader, especially when it comes to the budget.

“I am constantly sounding that alarm on the dais,” said Cohen Higgins. “On behalf of my district and all of the residents of Miami-Dade County, I’m making sure that our tax dollars are being spent wisely, whether that’s scrutinizing contracts, (or answering the question of) why are we overpaying for properties.”

Hero believes government and organizations working together is key, as well as transparency in balancing a budget.

“I’m going to fight to protect that UDP. I’m going to fight to protect my agriculture, my agritourism people, the venues, affordability, job opportunity,” said Hero. “We need to work with ethics. If we have a budget, we have to give you priorities for our families. We need to open a community center.”

Dubois declined to participate in Local 10 News’ story, but pledged that he would if he makes it to a runoff.

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