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The Island City may avoid a tax hike for years to come.
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- Kim Swan, Editor
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City May Avoid Tax Hike for Years
By John Hayden
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A staffing crisis led to an overdue overhaul of pay and benefits in the police department. A brewing personnel shortage of regular city staff led to a refreshed compensation structure.
While health insurance costs held stable, other insurance costs jumped.
Last summer’s budget cycle for Wilton Manors was filled with one seismic shift after another and led to a 10% property tax increase. This summer appears to be less complicated.
During the first budget meeting of the season, city commissioners received a General Fund Financial Sustainability Analysis from consulting firm Stantec. It projects city revenue for the next five years starting with FY26, which begins Oct. 1, 2025.
The bad news is the city is projected to run a deficit over several of the next years. The good news is that unassigned/reserve money is about twice (39%) what it should be (15%-20%).
The analysis showed that reserves can cover projected deficits and come into line with the 15%-20% goal, theoretically eliminating the need to raise property taxes for five years.
However, that is just a suggestion.
Consultants don’t set policy, that’s the job of the commission.
Maintaining healthy reserves is important so that money is on hand when there’s an emergency. For example: a major sewer line break can cost $100,000 and isn’t the type of repair that can be delayed.
The first draft of the budget is expected around July 10 and the city’s Financial Advisory Board will take a deep dive and make recommendations to the commission.
For FY26, the city must set a ceiling for the millage rate by Aug. 5, and adopt a final rate and budget by Sept. 30. |
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Nominations Open for 'Your Choice Awards'
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Out South Florida is launching its Your Choice Awards – where our readers get to nominate favorite local people, places, and things.
The contest is divided up by county, Broward, Palm Beach, Miami-Dade and Monroe.
Vote here.
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Mizz OutSFL Velvet Lenore Honored at Take Pride 2025
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Velvet Lenore has yet another sash to add to her growing collection. The reigning Mizz OutSFL was honored at History Fort Lauderdale’s annual Pride celebration at the Galleria Mall.
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City Manager Gets Prestigious Recognition
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Leigh Ann Henderson is woven into the fabric of Wilton Manors. The city manager has been with the city for 25 years in one capacity or another.
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TODAY: Fourth of July Celebration
Plantation Walk's 4th of July Celebration. The Elton John Tribute, Radio Band, djs, street market, fireworks viewing and more.
SAT: Watercolor Class
One in a series of fun adult watercolor socials. No experience is required. All supplies provided.
SUN: Viva La Frida
Join La Mexicana for Frida Kahlo's Birthday Brunch, a one-of-a-kind celebration where creative energy flows freely, as the cocktails.
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Entry Level Sales Representative -- Fort Lauderdale
Power Home Remodeling is hiring an Entry Level Sales Representative to do the delivery of interactive sales presentations on eco-friendly, green products and services to customers, and more. $72,000 - $130,000 a year.
Sales Design Consultant -- Fort Lauderdale
Scan Design of Florida is seeking a Sales Design Consultant to create and assist clients with design projects, and more. $45,000 - $85,000 a year.
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Oh, sweet Brook (ID 698697), can she be part of your family?
This 2-year-old gal was transferred from another shelter, so her past is a mystery. Brook has a beautiful brindle and white coat, and a smile that will melt your heart. She is affectionate, likes to be petted, and according to shelter volunteers, she walks calmly on a leash and does not react to other dogs that she passes. Some say she has a warm and gentle energy. Brook is a social butterfly and enjoyed playing with the kids at the shelter’s summer camp program. Brook is heartworm positive. This is not contagious to other pets or people and is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. The shelter will treat Brook for this. Thanks to Enabled Remodeler, they have kindly paid her adoption fee.
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InTarotGate by Dooney
WAXING GIBBOUS MOON IN SCORPIO: Emotional transformation and inner strength.
This is a time of deep emotional connection and celebration of independence within our LGBTQ+ community. We are encouraged to embrace our authentic selves, forging bonds with those who honor and support our true identities. Influential figures in our lives—mentors, loved ones, or found family—serve as pillars of strength and compassion, helping us find balance between confidence and vulnerability. Together, we create a space of joy, healing, and unity, where shared feelings deepen our bonds. By opening our hearts and nurturing genuine relationships, we invite growth and renewal, reminding ourselves that we are never alone on this journey of empowerment.
(Key number: 3)
TikTok: @inTarotGate Bookings: InTarotGate.Company.Site
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Our mailing address is: The Islander |
PO Box 23817 • Oakland Park, FL 33307
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