Penny for Your Thoughts

Dear neighbors,

This week, the Village Council voted on a proposed, tentative increase to our property tax rate (millage rate) for the 2025-2026 budget year.The rate was set at 3.86. The vote was 3-2. I voted No. Vice Mayor Jerry Greenberg also voted no.

This rate is tentative — it’s a preliminary step that sets a ceiling for what the maximum, final rate could be. For context: our current rate is 2.35, and we have always maintained a millage rate at 2.4 or below since our 1996 incorporation.  If this new rate were adopted, it would result in a 65% increase to our millage rate.

One of the expenses in the proposed budget includes relocating the Jungle Island parrots to Pinecrest.  This could run is $1.5-$3 million in initial costs. The Miami Herald wrote an article yesterday about it- read here.  I want to hear what you think.

My concern is simple: In a time of rising insurance premiums, inflationary concerns, and market uncertainty, I believe that our focus should be on cutting costs where necessary — not raising taxes.  

Pinecrest was again named the #1 place to raise a family in 2025.For 30 years, we have successfully delivered core services: public safety, infrastructure and quality of life -- at a modest tax rate. We must continue our 30-year policy of sound fiscal stewardship.

The Council’s final votes on the budget will take place over the course of two hearings – September 9 and 16. Prior to that, the Village Manager will hold a Town Hall to present the budget to Residents. That will take place in late August/early September. I encourage you to attend — your voices should be part of these conversations.

Residents are and always will be my North Star. As always, I welcome your feedback.

Committed to our Community,

Shannon del Prado