HIALEAH is unique among Dade's municipalities. About 85 percent of its 160,000 population is Hispanic. Its annual budget is $70 million. It is governed by a seven-member city council and a "strong," executive mayor with veto power who doesn't
serve on the council.
For the last six years, this mayor has been Raul Martinez. His use of his strong-mayor powers has often brought him the epithet of dictator. During his last two-year term, Hialeah has been clouded by allegations of bribery and generalized corruption at City Hall. Federal investigators have scrutinized the city's and Mayor Martinez's business records. His long-time friend, former Councilman Sebastian Dorrego, was convicted in February of attempted extortion. Throughout all this, however, Mayor Martinez himself has come out unscathed.

Three candidates challenge the mayor in Tuesday's elections. Two of them offer strong opposition: former Councilman Paulino Nunez, and newcomer Nilo Juri.

Mr. Nunez has been a Hialeah councilman for six years. His lack of significant accomplishment during that period gives no reason to believe that he would perform better as mayor. Further, a cloud hangs over Mr. Nunez because he was mentioned in one of alleged "corrupter" Alberto San Pedro's tapes.

Mr. Juri is a first-time candidate, though he has been campaigning for almost two years. His slogan emphasizes that he is "clean" and has no links with Hialeah's past. However, Mr. Juri, who owns a textile business, also operates a farm where he raises fighting cocks for export. Though Mr. Juri insists that he has not attended a cock fight in two years, a connection with a sport that is illegal in Florida is hardly likely to enhance Hialeah's image.

Incumbent Mayor Martinez is a vigorous, respected leader, not only in Hialeah but throughout the state. He is president of the Dade County League of Cities. He also is active in the Florida League of Cities, the Beacon Council, the State Comprehensive Plan Committee, and other roles. His voice in these regional bodies will give Hialeah the visibility it needs as an important element of South Florida's future.

The Herald recommends the re-election of Hialeah Mayor Raul Martinez.