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“Key West works best when City Hall works with you. Together, we can make our city more affordable, more resilient, and more connected than ever before.”

Ten years of trusted leadership as City Commissioner and Vice-Mayor
Advocate for affordable housing, healthcare, and working families
Committed to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and inclusion
Key West community advocate, husband, father, and neighbor

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Meet Sam Kaufman — A Neighbor Who Leads by Listening

Sam Kaufman has served as City Commissioner for District 2 since 2015 and as Vice-Mayor from 2018 to 2024. As an attorney and long-time community advocate, Sam has worked tirelessly to keep government accessible and transparent while championing policies that protect working families and local values.

He and his wife, Julia, have raised their children in Key West, where Sam founded his local law practice more than two decades ago. His leadership is rooted in compassion, fairness, and service to others.

Sam’s community involvement extends beyond City Hall. He serves as:

A mentor for the Take Stock in Children Program, supporting student success and opportunity.
An Executive Board Member of the Key West Art & Historical Society, helping to preserve and celebrate local culture.
A Board Member of the Florida Keys SPCA, advocating for animal welfare and humane care.
The Chair of the Florida Keys Outreach Coalition, where he has served for over 20 years helping individuals and families in need of housing, food, and recovery services.

Community Involvement

Building Community Through Service and Action

Over the past decade, Sam has led initiatives that strengthen neighborhoods, support local families, and celebrate Key West’s diversity. He believes that government works best when it partners with community organizations that know their neighborhoods best.

Highlights:

Partnered with local nonprofits such as FKOC, United Way, and Sister Season Fund to deliver COVID-era emergency relief.
Sponsored funding for the Boys & Girls Club’s new facility at Bayview Park.
Supported the Police Athletic League (PAL) and youth recreation programs.
Advocated for the Frederick Douglass Educators Museum and the preservation of African American heritage in Old Town.
Supported LGBTQ+ inclusion and equality through visible civic symbols like the Rainbow Crosswalks and Flag at City Hall.
Spearheaded COVID relief programs totaling $500,000 for rapid testing, food, and rent assistance.

Accomplishments

A Decade of Results and Responsible Leadership

Legislative Leadership:

Created the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board
Sponsored the Sightseeing and E-Bike Ordinances
Supported cruise passenger fee increases to protect city resources
Introduced Resolution 19-238 to include solar energy in capital projects

Housing & Affordability:

Led Sigsbee Park Housing Rebuild Advocacy (166 new units)
Secured dedication of affordable housing for new Building Units in the City • Advanced permanent supportive housing units at Poinciana Housing
Supported development of Garden View Apartments
Renewed funding for Homebuyer Assistance program

Infrastructure & City Services:

Protected Garrison Bight revenues for marina improvements
Supported construction of the new Dockmaster Building
Advocated for Bike-Ped Transportation Plan and safer parking access
Supported Development of Truman Waterfront Park

Healthcare Advocacy:

Founded the Commissioner’s Lower Keys Medical Center Task Force
Sponsored resolutions to ensure accountability in hospital operations
Advocated for local healthcare workers and improved patient care

Advocacy for Residents

Putting Key West Residents First

Sam has always championed the voices of everyday residents over special interests. His priorities reflect what matters most to locals:

Keep Key West affordable for working families
Protect neighborhoods from overdevelopment
Support small businesses and fair wages
Ensure environmental sustainability and clean water
Build consensus through transparency and community input

“Good government starts with listening. As Mayor, I will continue to lead by example, seeking common ground, bringing people together, and keeping the public’s trust at the center of every decision.”

Family & Roots

Family, Faith, and Community

Behind every public service role, Sam is a husband, father, and proud Key Wester. His wife Julia and their children have been his inspiration and greatest supporters throughout his public service. The Kaufman family embodies the spirit of community — engaged, compassionate, and committed to making Key West a place where families can thrive for generations.