Palmetto Bay election forum held at historic train museum
Residents questioned local candidates in person and via video during a community gathering at the Gold Coast Railroad Museum.
By Ethan Cook ·
Lisa Merkin and Barbara Ferenczi organized a political forum at the Gold Coast Railroad Museum on Saturday, Oct. 3. The event ran from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. alongside the Central Makers Market.
The forum brought together candidates running for Mayor and two council seats in the Village of Palmetto Bay. Residents attended to hear directly from the nominees about local priorities. Merkin, who runs the non-partisan social media channel Around Palmetto Bay, posed the questions. These queries were submitted by villagers via email, ensuring the topics reflected community concerns.
Tamara Mourino and Karen Baez-Wallace appeared as mayoral contenders. Pam Gorman and Tana Llinas ran for Councilmember Seat 1. A.J. Lara, Lasaly Changkachith, Alan Farquharson, and Carl Crawford sought the Councilmember Seat 3 position.
David Singer, a candidate for mayor, could not attend in person due to travel. He joined the forum virtually by video. His connection dropped before the session concluded.
Current local leaders also watched the proceedings. Mayor Karyn Cunningham, Vice Mayor Mark Merwitzer, and Councilmembers Marsha Matson and Patrick Fiore were present at the museum.
After the structured question period, the candidates stayed on the grounds. They fielded additional inquiries directly from residents in the crowd. This informal segment allowed for more direct dialogue between the nominees and the public.
The forum was coordinated by Barbara and Ed Ferenczi, who have lived in Palmetto Bay for eight years. They produce Sunset Eats, a Thursday night market at Palmetto Bay Park. They partnered with Merkin for this event. The group emphasizes the non-partisan nature of the channel and the forum.
The Gold Coast Railroad Museum served as the venue. It holds historical significance for Miami, including the Ferdinand Magellan rail car. Built by the Pullman Company in 1928, the car was named after famous explorers. During World War II, it was rebuilt as an armored presidential rail car for President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It became U.S. Car No. 1, equipped with reinforced armor and security features. The museum hosts a market with vendors and food on the first Saturday of every month. Admission is free for attendees.
