Meet the applicants for Tampa City Council's District 7 seat
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The future of the Rays stadium could hinge on who the Tampa City Council appoints Tuesday to the District 7 seat Luis Viera vacated.
Why it matters: Viera has consistently voted in favor of the stadium.
- With the six remaining council members deadlocked on the $2.36 billion project, any approvals between now and March's elections could hang on his replacement.
Driving the news: Fourteen applicants are vying to fill Viera's District 7 seat, which covers New Tampa, Forest Hills, Terrace Park and University Area.
- Each applicant gets two minutes to make their pitch at Tuesday's meeting. Four votes are needed to secure the appointment.
Nasrin Aldawoodi, an anesthesiologist at the Moffitt Cancer Center and an associate professor at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, says she would invest in the neighborhood's schools and make roads safer.
Clifford Maurice Allen, a Tampa resident for more than 20 years and longtime sales manager, lists his negotiation and communication skills among his strengths in his application.
Patricia Alonzo, a health care executive, describes herself as an analytical leader known for building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders.
Kamolika Batabyal, a Tampa resident for five years and a public health professional, says she'd bring a "data-informed, ethical approach" to infrastructure and community spending.
Alan Cohn, a former TV reporter, cites his experience holding institutions accountable as a strength and lists "responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars" among his priorities.
Candice Monique Cowen, a Tampa native and community development specialist, says she's committed to "people-centered leadership that strengthens neighborhoods."
James Davison, a Tampa resident for 33 years and a physician, says he'd bring "careful listening" and "responsible stewardship" to the City Council.
Darnell Eason, a Tampa resident for nearly five years and a retired New York law enforcement officer, lists budgeting and infrastructure among his strengths in his application.
Eyad John Gheith, a Tampa resident for five years and a former utility communications representative, says he'd bring a "collaborative, service-oriented approach" to the City Council.
Robin Lockett, a Tampa resident for over 60 years and the regional director for Florida Rising, lists grassroots organizing and coalition building among her strengths in her application.
Morris Lopez III, a division chief at Hillsborough County Fire Rescue, cites his experience directing large-scale countywide operations as a strength.
Belinda Gail Quarterman Noah, a Tampa resident for 23 years and former attorney, says she offers "careful review of public policy" and "accountable" decision-making.
Jessica Parks, who heads human resources at landscape lighting manufacturer Volt, lists "responsive constituent service, safer roads [and] thoughtful growth" among her priorities.
Gene Siudut, a columnist for La Gaceta who chairs the New Tampa YMCA board and Friends of the New Tampa Performing Arts Center, lists "community engagement" among his strengths.
Go deeper: You can find their full applications here.