West Miami 2026 elections features Democrat George Lavin

West Miami residents casting a ballot in the city's April 14 Municipal Election will be treated to a new face and a fresh perspective in the race for Commissioner, Seat 1. George Lavín , a legal consultant with deep roots in the community, has stepped up to succeed nonagenarian Luciano Suarez in the seat.

West Miami voters have until April 2 to request a vote by mail ballot . While no early voting options are available, those wishing to vote in person may do so on April 14 at the West Miami Community Center, 901 SW 62nd Ave. PLEASE NOTE: This polling location has changed, as the West Miami Recreation Center is not available for this election.

Here is the sample ballot

About the candidates

George A. Lavín is a West Miami resident of 14 years running for Commission Seat 1 on a platform of transparency, accessibility, and community-first governance. A legal consultant who works with prosecutors, law firms, and corporate legal departments, Lavín brings a sharp analytical mind and a deep sense of civic responsibility to his campaign.

The son and grandson of immigrants who fled economic hardship and authoritarian regimes, Lavín understands firsthand what it means to place trust in the community that welcomes you. He and his spouse have built their life in West Miami and he is now ready to give back.

Running under the slogan "Visibility for All West Miami Citizens and Residents," Lavín's platform focuses on making city government more open, responsive, and accountable to every resident.

His key priorities include:

• Launching a Citizen Access Portal so residents can bring concerns directly to City Hall and receive real responses
• Creating Budget and Spending Dashboards to track how taxpayer dollars are used
• Protecting and expanding services for seniors, children, and working families
• Strengthening community-police partnerships and expanding mental health crisis response resources
• Supporting small business growth and reducing bureaucratic barriers to economic development
• Continuing infrastructure improvements to roads, sidewalks, and city facilities
• Expanding parks and green spaces for families, seniors, and children

More about the election...

Mayor (4 year term)

• Yolanda Aguilar
• Eric Diaz-Padron

Commissioner - Seat 1 (4 year term)

• Gustavo "Gus" Ceballos
• George A. Lavin

Commissioner - Seat 2 (4 year term)

• Fermin J. Belleau
• Juan M. Blanes

Commissioner - Seat 4 (2 year term, special election)

• Victoria de la Torre
• Elsa Pelaez-Lopez