Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hialeah public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in water utilities
Water and Sewer Senior Relief Program (FY 2027)
The city is proposing new water and sewer rates and a relief program for seniors. Residents also heard about a smart water meter pilot that could change how usage is billed.
Smart water meter pilot
Two vendors will install up to 450 smart water meters for a free 180-day test that could modernize how the city bills and tracks water.
Residential flooding concerns
The city finished its state-required vulnerability assessment, finding that heavier storms and rising groundwater are the main flooding threats. Over 100 candidate projects — from maintenance to capital improvements — are now ranked and ready to be used to chase state and federal grant money.
Water supply work plan
The council signaled intent to adopt the city's 20-year Water Supply Facilities Work Plan update (2025–2045) with Comprehensive Plan element amendments.
Reverse Osmosis Plant production crisis
The mayor revealed the RO plant is producing only about 6.7 million gallons a day versus a target over 10 million because heavily-used wells are drying up; four new wells dug in 2020 were never connected and are close to coming online. The city still owes $37 million on plant bonds and a $3 million exit penalty applies before the operator contract ends in 2030.