Joaquin Almazan.(Courtesy photo)

BELLE GLADE -- The City of Belle Glade municipal elections will be on the March 19 ballot. In the race for Seat C, incumbent Joaquin Almazan is challenged by Robert C. Mitchell. 

Joaquin Almazan was born in Belle Glade. He said he has lived in Belle Glade for 28 years and lived in South Bay for 26 years. He has been on the city commission since 2021 and is currently the vice mayor.

Almazan is a 1987 graduate of Glades Central Community High School, and a 1989 graduate of New England Tech Associate of Science Electronics

“I’m seeking re-election to continue to work on the needs of our residents and businesses,” he explained.

He said he thinks the most important problem facing the city is youth violence. Ideas to address this problem include having more recreational programs, mentoring in schools and supportive programs for parents.

In response to the question, “Why are you the best candidate for this position?” he responded: “I have listened and understand the residents’ needs and concerns. I want to continue building the progress the city has made, with the knowledge, skills and working relationships with our county and state leaders to bring the resources back to Belle Glade.”

Robert Mitchell, the challenger, was born in Pahokee and raised in Belle Glade. After college, he moved to Los Angeles, Calif. He returned in Belle Glade in 2016.

He is a graduate of Glades Central High School and earned a degree in Education/Theatre from Florida A&M University.

He said he decided to run for office “because I simply Love my Hometown. I’ve identified impactful solutions that will help unite our communities to prosper.”

Mitchell said the most important problems facing the City of Belle Glade are the lack of affordable housing and lack of higher paying jobs. He said he would solve these problems by “intentionally seeking and negotiating deals with new business employers.”

In response to the question, “Why are you the best candidate for this position?” he responded: “I am the best candidate for this position because my loyalty, heart, and commitment is to God the people, not money! I am able to make decisions with righteous judgment and golden rule standards, verses chosen political puppets chosen to serve for special interests or industries above the needs of the people which goes against the pledge of service.”

Election Day is March 19. Deadline to request a ballot by mail is March 7. Early voting in Palm Beach County will be March 9-16.