Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Dunedin public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues in taxes budget with medium priority
City Manager Compensation and Morale
Commissioners praised City Manager Jennifer Bramley but split 3-2 on her raise, approving 3% rather than the 3.5% given to other managers. Two residents publicly opposed any raise while the city plans layoffs under Amendment 3.
Final ARPA Funds Disbursement
With $382,508 left and a December 31, 2026 deadline, the plan is to shift it to the General Fund — effectively covering a month of the sheriff contract — plus $555,265 in flexible interest earnings still uncommitted.
Grants Program Performance
The two-year-old grant specialist program brought in $11.5 million with only ~$700,000 in match, but the specialist position was cut in the contingency budget and the city manager is weighing outside administration versus future applications.
Potential Dissolution of the CRA
Commissioner Jeff Gow floated having the city consider dissolving the CRA as a contingency, which would send about $1.1–1.2 million in tax increment money back to the general fund. Staff countered that the county's share and downtown's broader economic engine would be lost. No action was taken.
20-day Fine Cap Limits Code Enforcement
Fines stop accruing after 20 days per order under a City Commission policy, which board members say blunts their leverage. Chairman Stone wants the City Manager to consider declaring problem properties chronic nuisances.
FY 2025 CRA audit results
The CRA's tax increment financing dollars get a full independent checkup every year, and this year's audit found zero problems — no internal control issues, no compliance findings. That means the money collected and spent downtown is following state law and the CRA plan.
Aid to organizations and civic partners
The city recommends $222,000 for civic partners and non-profits — but every grant would be cut in half if Amendment 3 passes, and disbursement would wait until December.
Credit card convenience fees
The city eats about $330,000 a year in credit card fees residents incur paying bills and golf greens fees. Commissioners directed staff to start passing fees on at the golf course and study the rest.
November Statewide Referendum Impacts
Commissioner Dugard wants staff to analyze how the November property tax referendum could reshape city finances and even building heights if it passes.
Solid Waste Truck Fleet Replacement with State Grant
Two aging garbage trucks get replaced early thanks to an $800,000 FDEP Volkswagen grant. The city's share is just $74,610 from the Solid Waste Fund.