Mike Liebelson, a candidate for the mayoral position in Boca Raton, has voiced strong concerns regarding the city’s direction, emphasizing what he deems uncontrolled development that is harming residents’ quality of life. Born in December 1955 in Queens, New York, Liebelson argues that current city council decisions have led to increased traffic, rising taxes, and pressures on essential infrastructure such as roads and utilities.
Liebelson’s critique extends to specific ballot questions facing voters. On ballot question No. 1, which proposes a bond issue for police headquarters and public safety improvements, Liebelson intends to vote against it. He believes the proposed amount of $120 million exceeds necessary funding levels. He stated, “I have no faith that our existing city commission has the capabilities to properly manage and provide oversight for the construction of the large project that is being proposed.” He highlighted that taxpayers have already experienced a 70% increase in property tax revenues, which he claims have not been managed responsibly by the current administration.
In contrast, he plans to address police infrastructure needs with a smaller, more manageable bond issue after a new city council is in place, should he be elected.
Liebelson also opposes ballot question No. 2, which concerns the lease of downtown land for public improvements, labeling it a “public land giveaway.” He argues that the proposal, which involves significant financial commitments, including a $200 million public improvement cost, does not adequately inform voters of the implications. “We are giving up land valued at $200 million while funding another $200 million for public improvements,” he noted, emphasizing that the deal would lead to financial losses for the city.
He criticized the ballot language for omitting crucial details about the development’s scale, which includes plans for 5-7, 12-story towers that he believes will fundamentally alter Boca Raton’s downtown character.
Regarding property taxes, Liebelson agrees that they are excessively high. He pointed to a 70% increase in property tax collections over the last five years, which he argues has negatively impacted small businesses and families. He advocates for tax reductions and insists he will not support the sale or leasing of public lands to compensate for lost revenue.
Liebelson distinguishes himself from his opponents by rejecting campaign contributions from developers, a stance he believes sets him apart in a race where his opponents have reportedly received over $500,000 from such interests. He asserts that their voting records reflect a concerning trend towards approving developments that threaten the community’s integrity.
With a substantial background in business, including an MBA in Finance from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and extensive leadership experience in the energy sector, Liebelson positions himself as a candidate with the expertise to manage Boca Raton’s growth responsibly. He has held senior roles at notable companies, including NRG Energy and Foster Wheeler AG, where he focused on sustainable and low-carbon technologies.
As the mayoral election approaches, Liebelson’s platform reflects a commitment to preserving the character of Boca Raton while ensuring that future development meets the needs of the community without compromising its quality of life.