Chairman Monestime and Board of County Commissioners approve budget that boosts funding for critical services while addressing sea level rise

(MIAMI-DADE, FL) – Miami-Dade County Commission Chairman Jean Monestime and the Board of County Commissioners on Sept. 17 gave final approval to the County’s 2015-16 budget, which boosts funding in such important areas as public safety, parks, libraries and animal services while taking significant steps to prepare the County for the potential impacts of climate change.

The higher funding comes from a rise in property values, which will bring $120 million more in revenue to the County’s coffers without an increase in property tax rates.

In response to calls for more funding to address sea level rise, the budget includes $300,000 to address the primary recommendations of the County’s Sea Level Rise Task Force, in addition to creating the position of Resiliency Officer to focus on sustainability issues.

“While this budget is not perfect, I’m pleased that it makes many necessary investments to improve services for our residents while addressing the important challenge of sea level rise,” Chairman Monestime said.