Advocates say Miami-Dade budget proposal falls short of community's needs
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The MetroRail in downtown Miami. Photo: Martina Tuaty/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Community organizations are urging Miami residents to speak up about proposed cuts to an eviction defense program and other services in Miami-Dade's proposed budget.
Why it matters: The county's budget impacts segments such as housing, transit, policing and public spaces such as parks and libraries. How those dollars are allocated, advocates say, reflects the values of a community.
- Concerns about budget cuts come after Gov. Ron DeSantis vetoed $32 million for arts and cultural initiatives from this year's state budget, costing more than 120 local organizations $6.5 million in funding.
Zoom in: While advocates acknowledge this year's budget — $12.7 billion — is the largest the county has seen, they argue funding for Miamians and the organizations that support isn't enough.
- Too much funding goes to policing and incarceration, advocates say.
- Engage Miami executive director Rebecca Pelham said many organizations are concerned the county isn't spending enough on "housing and preventing evictions," among other services that support everyday Miamians.
Between the lines: Miami voters last month overwhelmingly supported a measure to direct officials to expand mass transit.
What they're saying: When announcing the proposed budget in July, Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said officials took "a more prudent approach than ever."
- She cited the impact of sunsetted federal pandemic-relief dollars and increased demand for county services.
- Levine Cava acknowledged Miami residents continue to struggle but said officials "aim to deliver the same excellence in services" residents deserve.
The other side: Santra Denis, Miami Workers Center executive director, said the budget includes cuts in funding to prevent evictions and advocate for outdoor workers, among other important services.
- "We're not seeing substantial dollars allocated for workers' rights," she added.
Case in point: One program facing cuts is the Eviction Diversion Program, which was piloted last year with $2.9 million in funding.
- This year, just $1 million of the budget is earmarked for the program, plus dollars from a pending grant, according to Denis.
What's next: Ahead of Thursday's 5pm budget hearing, Engage Miami, Miami Workers Center and others are holding a solidarity gathering at Government Center at 3pm.
- "The first hearing is critically important," Pelham said. "It's really powerful when we're united and show solidarity."