Cutler Bay's Town Council on Saturday, Aug. 1, reviewed the full scope of the town's FY 2026-27 budget for the first time, expanding beyond the General Fund to cover transportation, capital projects and stormwater infrastructure in a single session.

The third and final budget workshop, held at Town Hall Council Chambers on Caribbean Boulevard, put every municipal fund on the table: the General Fund, Special Revenue Funds including Municipal Transportation Services, the Capital Projects Fund and the Stormwater Utility Fund. The prior workshop on Thursday, July 30, had addressed only the General Fund, according to the town's event page.

No specific dollar figures or proposed millage rates from the Aug. 1 session have been published.

What's at stake for residents' wallets

Among the funds reviewed, two carry direct pocketbook implications.

The Stormwater Utility Fund supports the infrastructure behind Cutler Bay's Community Rating System Class 4 designation. The town is one of only four communities in Florida to hold that rating, according to town records, and it saves flood insurance policyholders 30% on their premiums.

The Capital Projects Fund includes the planned Legacy Park and Municipal Complex, a major project featuring a new aquatic facility set to replace the aging pool at Cutler Ridge Park.

Who's steering the budget process

Finance Director Robert Daddario, the town's chief financial officer, leads budget preparation. Mayor Tim Meerbott and council member Robert "BJ" Duncan, both termed out and ineligible for the Nov. 3 general election, are guiding their final budget cycle. Council member Richard M. Ramirez holds Seat 3.

This is their last budget.

How residents can weigh in on the budget

The first of two public budget hearings required by Florida law is scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 8, at 6 p.m. at Town Hall Council Chambers, 10720 Caribbean Boulevard. Residents can attend in person, join via Zoom or submit comments in advance by email to [email protected].

The town's meeting portal hosts the full agenda for the Aug. 1 workshop and will carry the Sept. 8 hearing materials once posted. A second public hearing, required before the council adopts the final budget, has not yet been scheduled.