Special Election May Be Option To Replace Mayor

MIAMI (CBS4)-There will be no long goodbyes for Carlos Alvarez. Miami-Dade's recalled mayor could be out of office in less than 48 hours, and that means a new mayor will be appointed or a special election will be held.

If the election results are certified by Friday, the county's charter gives the commission 30 days to decide whether to appoint a new mayor or call a special election.

Commissioner Carlos Gimenez, who plans to run for Alvarez's seat, said the people won't stand for a mayor appointed by the county commission.

"I'm sure we're going to determine if we're going to have a special election," Gimenez said.

He said he favors a special election since people will have enough time learn about what the candidates stand for.

"It gives the people enough time to vet the candidates since it is a sprint and people really need to know who the candidates are, what they stand for," Gimenez said. "You know. Do they actually do what they say they will do."

Two other mayoral hopefuls, Hialeah mayor Julio Robania and former state Legislator Marcello Ilorente, both agree that a special election is the way to go.

Commission chairman Joe Martinez isn't ready to commit to any plan just yet. He said he wants to consult with the county's attorney and elections supervisor before he discusses the next steps for replacing mayor Alvarez.

"I knew there was discontent. I knew there was anger, but not to that level," Martinez said.

That's why Martinez said he'll wait until Friday.

If the commission decides to hold a special election, the clock begins ticking again.

The county charter said a vote must be held 45 days from the time it's approved.