Meet the candidates for Opa-locka mayor, commission. Here’s what they have to say

Opa-locka residents will elect a mayor and two commissioners on Tuesday, Nov. 3. We asked the six candidates where they stood on key issues facing the city. Here is how they responded:

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OPA-LOCKA MAYOR

Why are you running for office?

Natasha L. Ervin: I’m running for the office of mayor because I would like to continue the work that I’ve been doing as commissioner.

Rose Tydus: Received unsolicited requests from residents requesting my consideration to run for mayor based on my experience, proven leadership and service.

What makes you the best candidate for the position you are seeking?

Natasha L. Ervin: I absolutely love my city and want nothing but the best for its residents and business owners, and I know that I can help make that happen. I am invested in this community.

Rose Tydus: 20 yrs. Public Administration experience, including Opa-locka’s first African American city clerk; first Black city clerk in Dade County; served 12 yrs. as vice mayor and commissioner; served on city boards and advisory committees, plus served on Gov. Jeb Bush’s Front Porch Initiative; Opa-locka named garden “Rose Tydus Prayer Garden.”

What is the most pressing issue facing the community you wish to represent?

Natasha L. Ervin: Our city coming out of financial emergency is one of the most pressing issues that we have.

Rose Tydus: Overall negative public image as portrayed by social media, as being a high-crime area and economically and financially unstable. Throughout my service in this community I have been privileged to witness and foster many improvements, and I look forward to continuing to be a part of the growth, development and positive outcomes for all residents.

OPA-LOCKA COMMISSIONER (TWO SEATS)

Why are you running for office?

Randolph Aikens: Awaiting response

Sherelean Bass: I am running for office because I want to continue to shape the policies that affect my community daily lives for the greater good.

Brian Dennis: I am running for commissioner because public service should be about people, not politics. Opa-locka is my community, and I know firsthand that people deserve opportunities to grow, rebuild and succeed. As commissioner, I will work to expand opportunity strength in neighborhoods, connect residents with City Hall and ensure every voice is heard.

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Audrey Dominguez: I am running for commissioner because Opa-locka deserves leadership that listens to all residents and businesses that are facing challenges and work together toward real solutions.

What makes you the best candidate for the position you are seeking?

Randolph Aikens: Awaiting response

Sherelean Bass: I have a history of proven leadership. I have served with honesty, transparency and integrity, and will continue to do so.

Brian Dennis: What sets me apart is my record of service and commitment to Opa-locka. I have served on the city’s charter review board and as chairman of the community relations, parks and recreation and activities board. I understand our community, value residents’ voices, and I am prepared to innovate and bring those experiences and commitment to the commission.

Audrey Dominguez: As a former commissioner, I have been engaged with residents and businesses, I bring honesty and accountability, I have a genuine desire to serve. I am not simply running for a position. I am running because I believe in the future of Opa-locka and want to create a city where families feel safe and businesses grow.

What is the most pressing issue facing the community you wish to represent?

Randolph Aikens: Awaiting response

Sherelean Bass: The most pressing issues are infrastructure, affordable housing, social wellness and economic vitality.

Brian Dennis: Our most pressing issue is ensuring long-term financial stability. We need sound financial decisions, transparency and accountability that protects and uplifts all residents and accounts for taxpayer dollars while investing in safe neighborhoods, infrastructure, economic opportunity and city services.

Audrey Dominguez: The city of Opa-locka has been under financial oversight since 2016. This is one of my main priorities to get out of and move the city forward.

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This story was originally published September 23, 2026 at 5:00 AM.