Town Council Second Budget Workshop (General Fund)

The Town of Cutler Bay held its second budget workshop on July 30, 2026, focusing on the General Fund budget for fiscal year 2026-27. Town Manager Ralph Cassals presented detailed financial updates, including a projected $4.5 million deficit for the current fiscal year, largely due to soil remediation costs at Legacy Park and other properties. The council discussed significant capital improvement projects involving land acquisitions such as Legacy Park, Coastal Ridge Reserve, and Veterans Park, highlighting efforts to control development and preserve green space. The budget presentation included plans to maintain the millage rate at 2.8332, resulting in a projected $2.8 million surplus despite increased costs, notably a $925,000 increase in the police department budget. The council also reviewed pending revenues from grants, land sales, and voluntary cleanup tax credits to offset remediation expenses. Discussions emphasized transparency, fiscal responsibility, and the importance of maintaining service levels while managing environmental cleanup and property tax reform impacts. The workshop concluded with plans for a third budget workshop on August 25 and upcoming budget hearings in September.