If the name “London” rings a bell in the upcoming Village of Key Biscayne Council election, it’s not your imagination.
Claire Amerena London, wife of Ed London, who has twice served on Council for each eight-year span, is among five candidates who will campaign for three open seats in the Nov. 3 election.
Claire has lived on Key Biscayne for 36 years, moving here as a single mom from London. Her son grew up on the Key and went to the elementary school and St. Agnes.
She has been married to Ed for 24 years.
“We have actively participated in the community throughout those years,” she said. “I am also actively involved in charitable causes to benefit children and animals.”
Claire has a BFA in Art and Psychology and is an Acupuncture Physician. She also is a real estate associate and has served on the Key Biscayne Beautification Committee and the Key Biscayne Dog Park Committee.
In addition, she was the Vice Chair on the Key Biscayne Film Festival Board and was instrumental in attaining the Key Biscayne Paradise Cinema, in the Village Chambers.
She also served for 18 years as the President of the Grove Club Condo Association in Coconut Grove.
“My main reasons for running for office are to help preserve the character of the Key, to continue to provide the highest quality services with an efficient government. Underground utilities are a priority!” she said.
“I am passionate about Key Biscayne. It has been my home for the greatest part of my life and it’s so important to maintain the essence of the community so that others may also benefit today and in the future.”
This week, she took time to answer three questions for Islander News:
Q: Assuming this will be your first foray into politics, will this be a vote for Claire London or somewhat of an extension of Ed’s tenure? In other words, how much will you rely on Ed’s expertise to carve your decisions?
A: I am absolutely my own person, and I plan to forge my own path. I have always had my own opinions, which are sometimes different from Ed’s, but in many ways we are similar. I would be sensible to use my husband’s profound knowledge and expertise as a sounding board, and I intend to listen to any wise and intelligent people that come and talk to me.
Ultimately, my decisions will be my own. I do believe that asking good questions and listening carefully will allow for solid decision-making.
Q: As a longtime Key Biscayne resident, what have you noticed as the biggest differences in the Village from years ago and now, and what priorities would you like to establish as a member of the Council?
A: Having lived on Key Biscayne for 36 years, I have seen an enormous number of changes. But some things have not changed. The island is still vibrant, welcoming, culturally rich, full of life, safe, and, above all, the people are friendly and actively involved in the community.
My priorities would be to move forward with the underground utilities. I keep hearing people complaining about their electric power going out. We can do better! And, of course, to move forward with the underground stormwater sewer.
I would like to review management practices to make sure the mistake that cost the Village $8.5 million will never happen again.
Most people are struck by Key Biscayne’s physical beauty when they first arrive. The beaches, the parks and the trees. Most of this was planted after Hurricane Andrew and has taken years to mature. It is important to maintain, improve and preserve this beauty on a daily basis and long term. I will continue to support the Arts, and events for children and youth programs, and the ASK club.
Q: What have you learned from Ed’s past elections and are you prepared to stand on the corner with election signs or go door to door? Or what will your strategy be to gain votes?
A: I believe the best way to reach the community is by being available to discuss issues and to be out and about. I think the sign waving is a tradition, which I will participate in. I am a communicator and a listener by nature, so I will be available for chats and questions.