The commission’s decision to reduce the millage rate marked the first time in over a decade that it fell below 9%. Despite this reduction, the city anticipates an increase in revenue due to a 12.3% rise in the property tax base, which will disproportionately impact non-homesteaded properties. Commissioner inquiries highlighted resident concerns over rising tax bills, with instances of increases despite the city’s millage rate decrease. Budget Administrator Bobson clarified that the city’s portion represents about one-third of the total tax bill. Bobson emphasized the importance of communicating these dynamics to residents, especially as property values and other taxes influence their total tax liability.

The city is facing a projected revenue increase of 10.3% compared to the previous year, largely due to a rise in the property tax base. Bobson explained that the current millage rate would result in $1.5 million less revenue for Opa-Locka, equating to last year’s intake. The need for this additional revenue stems from the depletion of the city’s fund balance, operational issues with red light cameras, and the funding for new general fund employees and salary increases. Notably, a revenue deficit of $600,000 was attributed to the red light camera program, and $400,000 was required to support four additional general fund employees and salary enhancements.

The budget hearing also addressed the 2011 bond, which is projected to be fully paid off with a final payment due in January of the upcoming year. This elimination of debt is seen as a significant improvement for the city’s financial standing. The general fund no longer carries previous bond debts, although some debt related to water services remains.

A notable development discussed during the meeting was the implementation of a new red-light camera system in school zones, set to become operational on October 21. The mayor requested a detailed presentation on this system at the next commission meeting, emphasizing the need for clarity on operational hours and revenue distribution from fines. The commission discussed revenue sharing from the new school zone cameras, with the service provider receiving the first two violations of the day and the city earning a portion of subsequent violations. On average, the city expects to earn around $60 per citation. The commission underscored the importance of ensuring that the city benefits financially from its enforcement efforts.

Attention was also given to the budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026, which encompassed general, proprietary, and special funds. The city manager highlighted the first full funding of a police academy program aimed at supporting young individuals preparing for law enforcement careers. Concerns were raised about the organizational structure of city departments, including changes involving the purchasing officer’s relocation to the finance department, with inquiries about the rationale behind such structural changes.