Opa‑locka commission approves final millage rate on first reading

The Opa‑locka City Commission voted 5–0 on first reading Sept. 8 to adopt a final millage rate of 8.9797 mills for fiscal year 2026–27.

Budget administrator Floyd Harris told the commission the rate had been tentatively approved at a July 22 meeting. "The city, tentatively approve the millage rate at the July 22 meeting of 8.9797 mills, and that is 5.66 higher than the city's rollback rate of 8.4988 mills," Harris said, and added the rate would bring in an additional $1,300,000. Harris said some of that revenue will be offset by about $1,200,000 in contractual costs for the police department and a repayment tied to the city's red‑light camera program.

The measure passed on a roll call in which each commissioner and Mayor John Taylor voted in favor. The vote constituted first reading; the commission may revisit the millage during the legally required second reading before final adoption. Commissioners who spoke during the short discussion said they were relieved the rate was not increased further but also noted a desire to reduce rates in the future if possible.

This ordinance was introduced as part of the commission's annual budget process and will proceed to the next scheduled hearing for formal adoption.