Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in North Miami public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
13 issues in taxes budget
Employee health and dental insurance for 2027
The city is keeping Cigna for health and vision and switching dental to Aetna for 2027, saving about $41,000. Health costs still went up 9.5%, but that's after negotiating Cigna down from a 16.5% initial ask.
November meeting schedule and council transition
The mayor proposed cutting meetings to once a month since agendas have been light, but Councilwoman Estimé-Irvin argued twice-monthly meetings protect public access and oversight. No change was made.
Budget Relies on Rainy Day Reserves
The city is on track financially, but officials estimate a state property tax exemption push could strip roughly $57 million from the general fund if it reaches the ballot and passes.
Special Events Spending Reductions
Burns and Charles want roughly $1.2 million or more cut from a $3 million events budget — NoMi Fest ($800K for a one-day event), the Winternationals parade ($250K), Mother's Day ($50K), and barbecues. Charles wants the savings redirected to street resurfacing, code enforcement, and senior services.
FY 2026-2027 Property Tax Rate Increase
The tax rate isn't going up, but your bill probably is — rising property values mean the 7.4-mill rate collects 3.25% more than the rolled-back rate. The city brings in about $50.6 million gross before its $17.5 million CRA contribution.
Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan FY2027–FY2031
The city's wish list for the next five years totals $58.82 million, with $12.54 million in year one for roads, stormwater drains, lift stations, water mains, parks and facility upkeep. The council takes the final vote at the September 15 budget hearing.
State Legislative Updates
Tallahassee is moving bills that would stop cities from spending money or taking any official action tied to 'DEI' — meaning no more heritage months, proclamations, or even posting about events. North Miami passed a formal resolution of opposition and is lobbying against it before session ends in about two weeks.
Board of Adjustment summer recess
The board will skip its August 19 meeting while the City Council is on recess, returning in September 2026.
Procurement code overhaul
The city is updating how it picks evaluation committees for contracts — the city manager will now appoint them, and a technical advisor can sit in. Comes as a state representative publicly flagged concerns about the city's contracting practices.
State legislator raises spending concerns
State Rep. Fabian Basabé told the council residents are calling him about the city's consultant contracts and spending, and floated a free state operational audit. The mayor pushed back, saying residents should call their own council members.
Challenge to Florida property tax constitutional amendment
A state constitutional amendment on the November ballot would significantly change Florida's property tax system, potentially cutting deeply into city revenue. The council authorized its attorney to join litigation opposing the measure, and staff will develop educational materials within legal limits.
City fleet vehicle purchases
Three pickup trucks and an SUV, up to $200,000 total, bought through the Florida Sheriffs Association cooperative contract to keep city fleets rolling.
Extended City Service Hours and Tree Trimming Grant
Starting May 19, select city departments will offer after-hours service once a month so working residents can access permits and other services. A tree-trimming grant of up to $1,000 per homeowner will also be explained at a May 19 workshop.