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Dunedin Board of Finance urges delaying major capital projects amid tax‑reform risk
Summary
The citizen Board of Finance recommended delaying the Highlander Aquatic Complex and a proposed downtown garage, and suggested plan changes to control rising health‑benefit costs — all to limit long‑term obligations if revenue falls.
Kathy Harvey, chair of Dunedin's citizen Board of Finance, told the commission the board reviewed the proposed FY27 budget with an eye to the pending property‑tax ballot measure and recommended shifting timing and scoping on several large capital projects.
"We agree with the recommendation to delay the Highlander Aquatic Complex until 2029," Harvey said, noting the project's estimated cost rose from $18.1 million to $23.5 million and that a scope review should be undertaken to lower the price. She also recommended delaying a proposed $9.1 million parking garage given the debt-service obligation and potential downtown revenue volatility.
The Board of Finance advised a consolidated monthly capital‑project report, closer scrutiny of overtime and benefit administration, and a readjustment of health‑plan incentives to reduce projected medical‑benefit increases. Commissioners praised the board’s detailed review and asked staff to incorporate the finance board's recommendations into the tentative budget and contingency planning.
