Lighthouse Point commission votes 4–1 to set tentative millage at maximum for further review

The Lighthouse Point City Commission voted 4–1 on July 8 to set a tentative millage rate at the maximum allowed by statute — 4.4207 mills — advancing a plan to reserve more city revenue for future bridge projects.

The action followed more than an hour of discussion in which commissioners weighed two competing approaches: raise the millage now to accelerate funding for bridges and other capital needs, or delay increases and seek additional cuts in the adopted budget. Mayor Kyle Van Busters said he had proposed a compromise to fully fund the Sample Road bridge without going to the maximum, but several colleagues argued the city must start saving more now. The motion to move to the maximum passed by a 4–1 vote.

Supporters said the higher tentative rate gives the commission flexibility to review specific cuts before the final hearing. “If we don’t raise taxes, we’re not going to get these bridges,” resident Ari Silverstein told commissioners during public comment. Finance staff said the move creates the option to lower the rate at the final hearing but not to raise it above the maximum once set.

The resolution sets the first public hearing for Sept. 13, 2025, and city staff said they will provide updated revenue and expenditure scenarios before that session. Commissioners who opposed the motion urged more aggressive line‑item reductions rather than a tax increase, stressing concerns about affordability for residents.