Town Manager's Update - Ballot Referendum

I’d like to share an excerpt from my article in the January 2025 Manager’s Monthly regarding an important referendum on the March 11, 2025, ballot. This referendum seeks resident approval for two critical public safety projects — without increasing taxes, issuing bonds, or taking out loans. Taxes will not be raised.

The necessary funds are already budgeted as part of our Capital Improvement Plan and Strategic Priorities Plan (please visit the Town Manager's webpage to view each of these documents). Additionally, resident approval is required to secure a grant covering 50% of the cost for the marine unit docking facility.

The Town Commission…”is seeking resident approval in an upcoming referendum to allocate up to $3.5 million (budgeted funds, with no financing or tax rate increases) for two critical public safety projects:

1. A police/fire rescue marine unit docking facility at Town Hall, partially funded through a Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND) Grant.
2. Rehabilitation of the old fire station and apparatus bays, which includes essential structural updates, equipment enhancements, and secure storage for over $2 million worth of fire rescue vehicles.

These projects are vital to enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of our public safety operations, ensuring our town remains a safe and vibrant community. The Town Commission deeply values its relationship with the residents and looks forward to continuing to earn your trust and support. Your input and engagement in these projects are essential to maintaining the high quality of life we all treasure.”

Please click here to watch the full discussion of the referendum question at the December 3, 2024 Town Commission Meeting (discussion begins at 1:22:45).

Proposed Ballot Language – March 11, 2025:
 
SHALL THE TOWN BE AUTHORIZED TO EXPEND UP TO $3,500,000 USING BUDGETED FUNDS FOR TWO PUBLIC SAFETY PROJECTS TO IMPROVE OPERATIONS, INCREASE EFFICIENCY, PRESERVE CRITICAL PUBLIC SAFETY INFRASTRUCTURE AND ENHANCE RESPONSE SERVICES, INCLUDING: (1) REHABILITATION OF THE OLD FIRE STATION/APPARATUS BAYS AND (2) CONSTRUCTION OF A PUBLIC SAFETY MARINE FACILITY FOR MARINE UNIT DOCKING AND WATER RESCUE SERVICES.