Commissioner Wants Special Election To Fill Mayor's Job

MIAMI (CBS4) - MIAMI (CBS4) – A Miami commissioner who plans to run for the Mayor's Office once a Canvassing Board certifies the votes of Tuesday's recall election for Carlos Alvarez feels there will probably be a special election to fill the post.

Commissioner Carlos Gimenez said the people won't stand for a mayor appointed by the county commission.

According to the county's charter, the commission 30 days to decide whether to appoint a new mayor or call a special election.

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

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

"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."

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.