Print

Email story

Comment

Email editor

Voters' choice: a fresh face or familiar one

As the Miranda and Tamargo campaigns hit high gear, neither takes anything for granted.

By KEVIN GRAHAM
Published February 27, 2007

TAMPA - Lisa Tamargo has learned to give shorter answers.

The newcomer in the District 6 race to replace City Council member Mary Alvarez, Tamargo, 41, is a travel consultant who dabbles in marketing. She's used to saying everything she knows about a subject, especially if it means persuading the listener to agree.

But she hasn't always had that luxury during timed debates and political forums in recent weeks. So, she's taught herself to speak more concisely.

Tamargo's opponent, Charlie Miranda, hasn't had the challenge of a such a learning curve.

Miranda, 66, served on Tampa City Council in the 1970s and again from 1995 to 2003, when he lost a bid for mayor. He exudes confidence when he talks about the city and has no problem being called a "career politician."

He has also gained endorsements from the St. Petersburg Times, Tampa Tribune and La Gaceta.

"If voters are looking for someone real, with experience and knowledge of the city, someone who doesn't BS too much or believe it too much, then I'm your candidate," Miranda said. "I'm straightforward, and I try to always do that no matter what."

Alvarez, who must give up the largely West Tampa seat because of term limits, has thrown her support behind Tamargo. She's taken Tamargo under her wing, introducing her to key players in the community. She plans to hold a Tamargo sign on street corners come Election Day.

Alvarez, who served on the City Council with Miranda during her first term in office, said Tamargo has "better vision and insight" than Miranda. Alvarez said she doesn't think Miranda's name recognition will pose a problem for Tamargo.

Tamargo has run a campaign focusing on making a positive difference. She likes the progress the city has made since Pam Iorio became mayor in 2003, and she wants to help.

"The position of a City Council person is truly like that of being a customer service representative for our city," Tamargo said. "The key to doing a good job, as with most any project or profession, is to be a good listener. ... To find out what works or doesn't work, and to look for logical, timely and cost-efficient solutions so that the needs of our neighbors are met."

As a businesswoman for nearly two decades, Tamargo wants to promote the growth and success of small businesses in District 6. She supports light rail for the city, preserving Tampa's historic heritage and better conservation programs for residents.

She plans to spend this last week of campaigning before the March 6 election going to as many events and talking to as many people as possible.

"This is really the homestretch," she said.

Miranda, meanwhile, has a record that speaks for itself. Few of his positions have changed since he last served in office.

He thinks the city should accelerate its plan to replace aging water and sewer lines. His top priority would be to "emphasize the basics of government," getting the city to first focus on quality in public safety, water and infrastructure.

He's also an advocate for historic preservation, having voted to save the Tampa Theatre, and he'd like to see the city work with other government agencies in the region to deal with water and transit issues.

And even after so many years as a public servant, Miranda said he's not taking anything for granted.

"You never can tell what happens in the last week," he said.

Kevin Graham can be reached at (813) 226-3433 or kgraham@sptimes.com.

BACKGROUND

Charlie Miranda

Born: Nov. 11, 1940.

Political experience: Tampa City Council member in the 1970s and 1995-2003. Ran two unsuccessful campaigns for mayor, 1979 and 2003.

Education: Graduate of Jefferson High School; bachelor's in criminology from the University of Tampa.

Family: married, three adult children, seven grandchildren.

Source of income: pensions, rental property and judging horse races.

Contact: none given.

Lisa Tamargo

Born: Oct. 9, 1965.

Political experience: First time seeking office.

Education: Graduate of Tampa Catholic, attended the University of South Florida.

Family: Single, no children.

Source of income: Self-employed as a travel consultant.

Contact: www.LisaTamargo.com.

[Last modified February 27, 2007, 00:15:07]