Coral Springs Commissioner Ted Mena: “This Is Not A Part-Time Job”

By Nicol Jenkins
Editor

At 65, Ted Mena says he would rather travel than deal with what he calls daily gripes of being a city commissioner for Coral Springs.

“This is not a part-time job, and this is a thankless job,” said Mena. “You get kicked in the back more than patted on the back.”

Mena will not run for re-election in the city-wide November election. This was his first term and he held the commission title for four years.

Instead of campaigning, Mena plans to retire, spend more time with family, and travel with his wife.

“I am going to start worrying about my life and family, and less of political life,” said Mena, who owns Reddy Teddy’s Car Wash in North Lauderdale. “I am not a politician. I’m very frank and speak my mind. I don’t say things that are only politically correct. Politics is a game and I’m kind of bored with it now.”

Although, Mena added that he enjoyed most of his term and was instrumental in “opening a dialogue on what is needed to bring the city into the 21st century.”

Among Mena’s accomplishments include signage for small businesses, solving transportation concerns by representing the city on the MPO (Metropolitan Planning Organization) board, and embracing diverse cultures.

“I think I’ve accomplished a lot of things in the past,” said Mena.

Mena hopes his successor will “speak up” for citizen’s rights.

“The city needs someone like me to speak up and not just go along for a political ride,” he said.

Although Mena says he is not ruling out a future role in politics.

“I will remain active in championing causes,” he said.

Besides Mena’s seat being open, Commissioner Roy Gold and Mayor Scott Brook’s seats will also be open. Both Gold and Brook will be running for re-election.

“I’m just getting started,” said Gold. “I am very satisfied with what I was able to accomplish in my first term for the city. I hope to get the support from the community and to get their votes for the second time.”

Mayor Scott Brook has already kicked off his campaign to keep his title.

“There are still things that need to be done with economic development. I want to increase property values to attract more businesses of all sizes,” Brook said. “It’s not just being a Mayor and a leader in the community, but also being a part of such a great community. It is a dream come true to have this job.”

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