The phrase “what goes up must come down” often doesn’t apply to taxes. But this year in this city, it does. Wilton Manors’ city commissioners are looking to cut property taxes even more than they already have.
During the Aug. 26 budget workshop, commissioners instructed city staff to adjust the budget to reflect a 3% cut in the city’s millage rate. They passed a 2% cut in July, and staff came into the meeting with a budget cut by 2.5%.
Taxes went up 10% last year when the city was facing myriad financial issues, including larger-than-expected costs for the city’s long underpaid police and city staff.
They also confirmed cuts to the library, which will likely result in fewer hours and services. The city continues to explore unloading the library on to the Broward County library system. Next month, the county is expected to release its report on if the idea is feasible.
Public hearings on the budget are set for Friday, Sept. 12 and Thursday, Sept. 25, both are at 6:30 p.m. in the city commission chamber at city hall.
The city must pass a balanced budget by the end of the month.
Wicked Request
In their meeting after the budget workshop, commissioners approved the Pride Center’s permit for Wicked Manors on Halloween. This year’s theme is Eden After Dark, Temptation Awaits.
The annual costume party is Oct. 31, Halloween Night. Like Stonewall Pride in June, Wicked Manors will have cashless admission and metal detectors at all entrances.
Organizers are also asking the city to come on as a key sponsor for $50,000. The city delayed approving the money as the budget is pretty well along. Commissioners are looking at a combination of cash and in-kind donations.
Commissioners & Community
New faces and perspectives are coming to the city’s vaunted Community Affairs Advisory Board (CAAB). Nine qualified applicants were considered for the five open seats.
Gene Stinson currently sits as CAAB’s Vice Chair and was reappointed to a new two-year term. Stuart Bowers, Jose Guzzardi, and William Richardson join the board and their terms began Sept. 1, 2025. Carvelle Estriplet was appointed to fill the unexpired term of Emily McCrater.
