Lizbeth Benacquisto was elected to the Wellington Council in 2002 and re-elected in 2006. She recently announced her candidacy for State Senate District 27. District 27 stretches from coast to coast and includes parts of Palm Beach, Glades, Hendry, Charlotte Counties and Lee counties.

Benacquisto has lived in Florida for the past 31 years. She's also a Realtor and a mother of two school-age children.

Senator Dave Aronberg announced he will be vacating the seat in order to run for Attorney General.

What do you do outside of the council?

I am a real estate agent and I do special events consulting.

How and why did you get involved in government?

I was involved in the project to build Tiger Shark Cove and I felt a stronger sense of community through that process about 10 years. As our family became even further rooted in the community I felt a young mother with a young family was needed on the council. I am finishing up my 8 years on the council and it's been an incredibly fulfilling experience.

What are your biggest accomplishments since joining the Village Council?

"There are so many things we've done. Wellington finds itself today in very strong financial position in this economic climate. I am very proud of our work, our reserves are strong, and our taxes are low. We have done a lot of great things over the years. The crime rate is low here in town. I'm involved in the economic development initiative, the rehabilitation of Forest HIll Boulevard and preserving our sense of our community. Our commitment to the environment has been very strong. Our commitment to the Everglades restoration program and the
investment we have made in our public education in Wellington I am very proud of. I believe the Citizens Volunteer Organization will have a lasting legacy.

Why do you want to run for State Senate District 27? What do you want to accomplish in the Senate?

I always have had a strong desire to serve in the legislature. I believe the timing is right. Some of the hardest hit neighborhoods in the state are in this district in terms of loss of jobs and foreclosures. I believe it's time to be a part of that dialogue so I can help shape the future of Florida. I want to help people get back to work. I want to see businesses begin to thrive again and that really motivates me to seek the office.

Besides the budget crisis what are the other big challenges facing Florida?

Well certainly property taxes and insurance remain critical issues for the state.
I want to be a part of the dialog and strengthen those systems. I want to keep Florida affordable to live here.

How will you differ in office than Dave Aronberg?

I can't really contrast myself. The universal feeling in the area is that he's done a great job and I hope when I am elected I will too.

Anything else you'd like to add?

I am incredibly grateful for the support we've received so far. When so many well respected and wonderful people lend their name it's very gratifying. We are very energized to win this seat. I look forward to having everyone on the team
and I want to start with a big thank you to all of the folks who have expressed their support so far,