Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Fort Lauderdale public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
4 issues in taxes budget with critical priority
2027 State Legislative Program
The Vice Mayor wants the city to go on offense against the state's Live Local Act, which lets tall affordable-housing projects bypass local zoning — with an AMI threshold he says isn't truly affordable. Staff and lobbyists will coordinate a stronger, proactive strategy before the program is finalized in November.
State property tax constitutional amendment impact
Tallahassee proposals could slash homestead property tax revenue by up to $72.8 million, and with projected FY2028-29 deficits the worst case approaches $100 million. Staff are planning for service cuts and new revenue, and the mayor floated a voter-approved bond to protect city hall funding.
Fiscal Year 2027 budget development
The city is starting to build next year's budget with revenue growth slowing while expenses keep climbing. The board flagged affordability, cost recovery on fees, and whether to raise the millage rate that has been flat for 19 years.
New City Hall cost and financing
Concept B for the new City Hall now runs about $24 million a year for 30 years — roughly double the originally planned payment — raising hard questions about budget cuts, a general obligation bond, or alternatives like buying an existing building. The state's property tax reform looms over everything.