Harry CohenHarry Cohen

Harry Cohen is everything voters should want in a county commissioner — dedicated, hard-working, experienced, highly competent. First elected in 2020 and reelected in 2022, he has served with integrity, intelligence and creative thinking. Cohen delves into the issues with a rare eye for detail, giving him a solid grounding for pragmatic decision-making. He's a fluid and convincing speaker, but even when he disagrees with other commissioners, he doesn't make it personal. He's forthright and levelheaded at a time when those qualities are much needed.

"Ninety percent of what happens with the commission doesn't fit into traditional party lines," said the 56-year-old Democrat. "Residents simply want us to make the county better."

Cohen wants to keep improving the county's storm and wastewater systems. He understands that transportation remains a frustration in the growing county. He hopes the new Rays ballpark and the surrounding development — which he supported with his vote — will help him spark a deeper discussion about relieving congestion in that area. He also wants to make sure the county charges enough in impact fees so that new development pays for itself.

Cohen, a lawyer, previously served eight years on Tampa City Council and worked as chief deputy clerk and general counsel to Hillsborough's Clerk of the Court. He's endorsed by Sheriff Chad Chronister, Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, the Hillsborough firefighters union, the Suncoast Police Benevolent Association and the Tampa Bay Builders Association, among others.

Cohen faces Republican Jackie Toledo, an engineer who spent six years in the state Legislature. She can't match Cohen's grasp of local issues or his energy for solving problems.

Voters in District 1, which includes most of South Tampa, Westshore, Town 'N' Country and parts of Seminole Heights, should give Cohen another four years. They won't regret it.