About Me

I was born in the Bronx, New York City, in 1964. I attended the prestigious Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan. Following my honorable discharge from the United States Marine Corps, I graduated from Bernard M. Baruch College – City University of New York with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accountancy. I later earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of North Florida. Both my undergraduate and master’s degrees were completed at night while I worked full-time in the accounting profession. Additionally, I completed the Senior Executives in State and Local Government Program at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government. I am proud to have received the Certificate of Merit from the Florida Board of Accountancy for achieving the second highest score in Florida on the May 2000 CPA exam.

Why I’m Running

I am seeking re-election to continue serving as your Commissioner for the City of Fort Lauderdale, District 1. My nearly four decades of senior-level experience in corporate and public sector finance and accounting provide me with a unique skill set for the Commission. As the City Auditor for 16 years, I was integral to every financial decision made by the City, reviewing every agenda item and advising on the financial viability of proposed public-private partnerships. The City will continue to face decisions with significant economic consequences, and my extensive experience ensures I am well-prepared to address these issues with no learning curve.

What Sets Me Apart

My private sector experience spans investment banking, Big 4 public accounting, the insurance industry, stock brokerage, and entrepreneurship. I have also served as Finance Director for the City of Neptune Beach and the City of Jacksonville. A highlight of my career was establishing the City Auditor’s Office for Fort Lauderdale in 2006, a role that utilized my leadership and accounting skills to create an oversight function from scratch. Throughout changes in City Commissions, City Managers, and City Attorneys, I have been a consistent and guiding presence, overseeing the integrity of the City’s financial, budgeting, and procurement activities.

How I Give Back

Despite holding demanding positions, I have always prioritized community involvement. I have served on numerous audit and finance committees, including the Broward Performing Arts Center Authority Finance Committee, Broward County School Board Audit Committee and Bond Oversight Committee, Broward County Housing Authority Audit Committee, Community Foundation of Broward County Investment Committee and Audit Committee, Florida Government Finance Officers Association Technical Resources Committee, Broward Housing Partnership Board Member, and CareerSource Broward Audit Committee. In 2019, I was a finalist for a seat on the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB). I frequently present to business groups, community organizations, and other local governments on topics such as auditing, budgeting, and financial condition evaluation.

How I Will Serve The Community

Having resided in various neighborhoods across Fort Lauderdale since 2006, including Imperial Point, Coral Ridge, Lake Ridge, Victoria Park, Harbordale, and downtown on the New River, I have gained a comprehensive understanding of the diverse needs within District 1. This broad exposure enables me to address district-specific concerns while collaborating effectively with other Commissioners on City-wide issues affecting the health, safety, well-being, and financial prosperity of all Fort Lauderdale residents.