Miami-Dade County officials are exploring new revenue opportunities to keep fees low for residents, as discussions about solid waste fee increases took center stage during the Board of County Commissioners meeting on July 1, 2025. The board is determined to find efficiencies in operations to mitigate the financial burden on residents, especially in light of a significant budgetary gap.

Commissioners expressed a strong desire to avoid raising fees, with one member emphasizing the need for a detailed justification for any proposed increases. The current proposal suggests a 2% increase in solid waste fees, which has already seen a staggering 46% rise over the past five years. Concerns were raised about the impact of these increases on residents, particularly those on fixed incomes.

Director of Solid Waste Anisha Daniel addressed the board, explaining that rising operational costs, including inflation and increased service demands due to community growth, necessitate the fee adjustments. She highlighted efforts to reduce costs internally, achieving nearly $5 million in savings through efficiency measures.

The board is set to revisit the fee structure in committee discussions, with a focus on ensuring that any increases are justified and aligned with the community's financial realities. As the county navigates its budgetary challenges, the emphasis remains on transparency and accountability to residents.