Mike Jaffe — Palm Bay City Council, Seat 5

- Advertisement -

The Space Coast Rocket invited every qualified 2026 candidate to complete the same questionnaire. The responses below are published exactly as the candidate submitted them, unedited.

- Advertisement -

Political, civic, or community experience

I currently serve on the Palm Bay City Council, as the Deputy Mayor. Board member serving on the Space Coast Transportation Organization. Chairman of the Space Coast Builders Association; I’m a former board member of the Melbourne Chamber of Commerce, NeighborUp Brevard and Evans Center, Economic Development Commission, Past President of Brevard Recovery Fest Board Ad Valorem Tax Abatement Council, Palm Bay Planning and Zoning Board, Palm Bay Utilities Advisory Board, and the Brevard County Construction Advisory Board. I recently joined the Circles of Care and Uplift Drug-Free Coalition boards.

1. Why are you running?

I’m running for reelection because, in less than two years, a lot has been accomplished, but there is still more work to do. I’m a fiscal conservative who prioritizes responsible budgeting and limited governance. Palm Bay’s progress needs to continue with safe streets, infrastructure upgrades, commercial development, and sustainable growth, all without compromising essential services. Reelecting me ensures steady, prudent leadership that protects taxpayers while expanding opportunities for residents and businesses. I will continue to advocate for prudent spending, transparent budgeting, and outcomes that reflect the community’s values and needs.

- Advertisement -

2. What are your top three priorities if elected?

Roads and transportation are critical to Palm Bay’s future, and I will continue to advocate vigorously as a member of the Transportation Planning Organization. I’ve already secured meaningful funding for the I-95/Malabar exit improvements and expect forthcoming enhancements for Malabar Road and San Filippo Drive, with work commencing in early 2027. I’ve also secured state funding for Jupiter and Minton Roads, and federal appropriations anticipated in 2027 totaling $4 million for several intersection improvements and ITS. These investments will improve safety and reduce congestion. We are well on our way with the design to widen Malabar Road from Jupiter to St. John’s, and funding is nearing completion for Malabar and St. John’s North to the County Line.

3. What is the single biggest problem facing the people this office serves, and how would you address it?

I believe Palm Bay’s biggest challenge is keeping our infrastructure ahead of our rapid growth, and I’ve made addressing that challenge one of my top priorities. In less than two years as Deputy Mayor, I’ve helped secure state and federal funding for major improvements to the I-95 and Malabar Road interchange, where construction is already underway. I’ve also helped secure funding for the Malabar Road widening from San Filippo Drive, with construction scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2027, along with funding for key intersection improvements across the city, the deployment of intelligent traffic signal systems, and the design of the Malabar Road widening from Minton Road to St. Johns Heritage Parkway is well underway. These are significant accomplishments achieved in a short period, but there’s still more to do. Give me the opportunity to serve another four years, and I’ll continue fighting to secure the resources, partnerships, and infrastructure investments needed to keep Palm Bay moving forward and improve the quality of life for every resident.