Miami-Dade County balanced its 2009-10 budget, while saving many worthy programs and without increasing the property tax rate. The final budget was agreed upon in the early hours of September 18th after many days of deliberations.

Together with the Board of County Commissioners, we maintained the same level of services for the elderly, veterans, and the disabled. Funding for community-based organizations was restored by 70 percent, bringing the level of funding to $22 million next year.  Support for cultural groups is also provided, as is support for the senior and afterschool programming, nature centers and pools. 

Headstart and Early Head Start programs will receive 75 percent of last year's revenues. The D.A.R.E. program will be back in schools next year, and 4-H programs will continue. The nationally renowned Anti-Venom Unit will also continue to operate.

In order to balance the budget, every County department made sacrifices.  I want to thank our community for their involvement in the process.  I appreciate the passion of our residents.  Miami-Dade County remains as committed as ever to Delivering Excellence Every Day.

Sincerely,

Mayor Carlos Alvarez