For Deltona residents, the 2018 ballot will likely feature at least three candidates for mayor.
One of them won't be John Masiarczyk, who's completing his second stint and can't seek re-election because of term limits. In all, he will have held that role for 18 of the city's first 23 years in existence. Instead, the candidates to lead Volusia County's most-populous city who have emerged are Santiago Avila, Jr., 35; Heidi Herzberg, 56; and Troy Shimkus, 37.
More candidates could file before the qualifying period ends at noon June 22. If three or more qualify, the field will run in a primary election Aug. 28, and if no one wins more than 50 percent of the vote, the top two finishers move on to a general election Nov. 6.
The mayor is elected citywide, serves a term of four years and makes $13,287.82 annually.
Why have you decided to run for mayor?
Avila: I really feel like the residents of Deltona aren't being put first. Whenever there's an issue, it's about the east side of the county. I think it's time that we concentrate on the biggest city in Volusia County.
Herzberg: I believe that Deltona is at a crucial point in our young existence as a city. I am running because I want to ensure that work (on health care expansion and public safety) and more continues, and I believe we can improve the quality of life in Volusia County's largest city.
Shimkus: Watching more meetings and seeing where things are headed in terms of finances and what the focus of the city has been on, I personally just was wanting to find a way of getting more involved, and I feel like I'm at a place in my life where I have the ability and the time to commit to something bigger.
How has your nonpolitical work experience prepared you for such a role?
Avila: With a background in banking, I feel like I'll be able to understand the city's finances and work on lowering its debt. I also own Professionals in Cleaning, Inc., with my wife, and being an entrepreneur would help me serve others who are trying to start their own business in the community.
Herzberg: As a longtime cosmetologist, I've found working with small businesses isn't so different from government. Its success or failure rests on the shoulders of a few but affects the lives of many more. When making decisions in business, it is crucial to be able to differentiate between an instant gratification choice and one that will ensure future success, growth and above all, stability for owners, employees and customers.
Shimkus: During my time working in the education field, I helped different groups of people with different priorities work together. Getting multiple groups to compromise and come together is never easy, but it is something I had to do often in that role. In working with data, I've found people generally make the right decisions when they are given the right information. If the city can provide consistent, clear data from across their departments, then I believe we can build a consensus with the people.
Where does Deltona need work?
Avila: I want to see more job opportunities so residents don't have long commutes into other cities or counties, and I'd like to see more things to do for Deltona's youth population. I want our residents to have a downtown Deltona where it's a community atmosphere. I also want a two-term limit for the position of mayor and let Tallahassee know that Deltona residents won't be forced onto sewer.
Herzberg: We need to continue to work on our communication and transparency with residents. I'd like to see more resident-inclusive events like town halls, visioning sessions and citizen boards. Regarding infrastructure and economic development, we've made steps for improvements in both areas, but with Deltona's size and population there is far more to be addressed.
Shimkus: We should be using our local data in decision making. I also want to make meetings more resident-friendly by adjusting start times and using technology to increase public participation because if someone serves as their loved one's caretaker, they may not be able to attend. I'd also like community groups to be able to use The Center without having to pay high fees.