The council examined eight bills related to property tax reform, which had been filed by Florida House members. The conversation centered on the potential elimination of non-school homestead property taxes, as proposed in House Bill 2011. This bill aims to provide substantial savings to homeowners by removing these taxes altogether. However, concerns were voiced about the long-term financial ramifications for municipalities, including Doral, which could face an estimated $6 million loss in revenue. Although Doral’s commercial income could mitigate such losses, other municipalities might experience severe financial distress.

Further discussion highlighted alternative proposals, such as phased approaches to eliminating homestead property taxes, which were considered more manageable than immediate eliminations. These approaches included House Bill 203 and House Bill 205, which suggest gradual reductions. The council expressed support for increasing exemption values for homeowners, aligning with bills from Representatives Abbott and Busousara.

The council recognized the importance of legislative language that protects seniors, veterans, and disabled persons. There was a call for broader language in the resolution to encompass increased exemptions and a range of reforms inclusive of all affected demographics. Concerns were raised that broad tax relief could disproportionately benefit higher-income individuals, undermining essential services for lower-income residents. The need for a clear plan to replace lost revenue from property taxes was emphasized, as maintaining city services is a priority.

The council also discussed protecting home rule and local authority while advocating for reforms in property insurance and home improvements. The importance of careful messaging around tax reform was underscored to avoid jeopardizing city services.

Public safety and community implications of proposed appropriations were another focus. A unified message was deemed critical as the council members navigate legislative changes. Potential relocation of taxes or fees from property taxes was discussed, with concerns about jeopardizing programs for seniors and infrastructure. The potential financial impact on Doral was highlighted, with losses projected anywhere from $11 million to $19 million if property taxes were eliminated. The assistant city manager confirmed this could be around $5.6 million based on current tax roles, noting the lesser impact on Doral relative to other municipalities.

Concerns extended to Miami-Dade County, where a drastic reduction in property taxes could lead to increased service fees and force municipalities to raise millage rates on income-producing properties. This could unfairly burden renters and lower-income residents. Debt obligations associated with general obligation bonds also came under scrutiny, with worries about meeting obligations for parks and infrastructure improvements without an alternative revenue source.

Population growth in Doral was mentioned, emphasizing the need for fiscal responsibility in line with this growth. Exempting senior homesteaded properties from municipal taxes was noted to have a $61,000 budgetary impact, a figure already reflective of existing grants for vulnerable populations.

The mayor proposed funding requests for fraud investigations within the police department to address economic fraud and enhance public safety. The intention was to present a coordinated front when engaging with state representatives and lobbyists.