Wayne Garcia this week formally announced his candidacy for the Key West City Commission, District 4. Garcia was born in Key West and is a fourth-generation Key Wester. He has worked as a building contractor for more than 40 years, gaining hands-on experience that he said has shaped his understanding of the community’s infrastructure and needs.
Garcia has been married to his wife, Angie, for 43 years, and calls himself a proud father and grandfather. He currently serves on the City of Key West Planning Board, to which the mayor appointed him in 2024. Garcia also is vice president of the Old Island Restoration Foundation, where he’s been a board member since 2020.
“In addition to my professional work, I’m a local folk artist and have lectured on Key West history for the Key West Art & Historical Society,” Garcia said. “My deep roots in this community, combined with my experience in historic preservation and home restoration, give me a unique perspective on protecting what makes Key West special while planning for its future.
“Having lived in District 4 for more than 35 years, I understand the challenges our residents face,” he said. “My top priorities include the cleanup and revitalization of Riviera Canal, improving sidewalk accessibility throughout District 4 by repairing and installing new sidewalks, addressing local flooding issues and developing a thoughtful plan for Little Hamaca Park.”
Garcia added that he also strongly believes that Key West must ensure all of its employees, from field workers to administrative teams, and especially fire and police professionals, are paid a living wage that reflects the true cost of living in the city.
“I’m running for city commissioner to bring integrity to the commission, restore a sense of pride in our community and uphold a commitment to honest, transparent government,” Garcia said.
In the District 4 commission race, Garcia currently faces Sarah Compton and Juan Llera. Incumbent commissioner Lissette Carey has not yet indicated whether she intends to seek reelection. City commissioners earn an annual salary of $20,000, plus up to $1,000 in reimbursements for city-related personal expenditures. They also are eligible for city-subsidized health insurance while in office.
