Candidate Profile: Lasaly Changkachith — Palmetto Bay Council Seat 3

Office sought:

Palmetto Bay Council Seat 3

Election date:

Nov. 3, 2026

Campaign website:

ElectLasaly.com

Why are you running for Palmetto Bay Council Seat 3?

I grew up in Homestead and watched South Florida grow from an agricultural hub into a booming region.

My husband and I chose Palmetto Bay for its tree canopy and Biscayne Bay, and raised three children here.

With a science background and Resiliency Committee service, I'm running to replace infighting with calm, collaborative leadership.

My priority is protecting Palmetto Bay's quality of life and tackling traffic issues while making thoughtful, fiscally responsible decisions for our future.

What are the three most important issues currently facing Palmetto Bay residents?

Issues vary by district, from the FPL-Luxcom settlement to peacocks and the repurposing of the Burger King headquarters for mixed-use housing in District 3.

But three issues touch every resident: traffic, village budget, and over-development. Congestion on our main roads affects every commute, and unchecked growth strains our roads, drainage, and tree canopy. I'll push for thoughtful, fiscally responsible growth that protects our quality of life.

What experience best prepares you to serve on the Village Council?

As chair of the Resiliency Committee, I've attended every council meeting, plus public hearings on developments, Local Planning Agency and zoning hearings, and other committee meetings, to understand what residents need.

That experience taught me that the village's real work is done by administration and staff, and that good governance respects that. I bring a service-first mindset, shown through volunteering at Pine Rockland restorations, recycling drives, and beach cleanups.

What would be your first major priority if elected?

My first priority would be learning how the village actually runs. I'd meet with department directors and with the Village Manager, Village Attorney, and Village Clerk to understand council procedures, deadlines, and how a council member can best support staff.

I'd also meet with our Village Sheriff's Office, particularly the Chief, and request a ride-along to see Palmetto Bay through their eyes. Informed decisions start with listening to the people doing the work.

How would you address concerns such as traffic, development, infrastructure, public safety, village finances and quality of life?

I'd address each concern thoughtfully and with care, because that is how we effectively improve quality of life. For traffic, development, and infrastructure, I'd visit the affected areas with the Village Manager and Planning Director, and together we'd determine the best outcomes and which studies are needed.

On public safety, I'd meet with the Village Sheriff's Office to address residents' concerns and find solutions that help everyone feel safe.

On village finances, I'd rely on data, account for outside forces driving inflation, and make hard, fiscally responsible decisions without sacrificing the services that define our quality of life.

How do you plan to remain accessible and accountable to residents?

I'll be reachable through the phone number and email the Village provides for council members, and I'll respond promptly.

Each month, I'll send a newsletter summarizing what the council accomplished and the issues residents are raising with me. I'll also host a “Chat with Lasaly” table at Palmetto Bay Park, where neighbors can stop by, share what's on their minds, and tell me about life in our village.

What distinguishes you from the other candidates in this race?

I'm the only woman among four candidates, but what truly sets me apart is how much I care about Palmetto Bay and its residents.

I care about protecting our quality of life, maintaining our safety, and addressing traffic.

I will work hard for District 3 residents and truly listen to them, because good decisions begin with hearing from the people who live here.

Anything else voters should know?

I'd like to thank the South Dade News Leader for sharing my views and why I'm running for Palmetto Bay Seat 3.

This platform helps me reach residents whose doors I have yet to knock on and whom I haven't yet had a chance to speak with.

I will work my hardest for residents. I'd love to hear from you, so please reach out, and I'd be honored to earn your vote.