Miami Dade County discusses potential sale of $500M debt amid staffing concerns

A pivotal discussion unfolded during the Miami-Dade Appropriations Committee meeting on July 9, 2025, centering on the potential sale of $500 million in county debt, excluding Jackson Health System's obligations. The proposal aims to explore whether selling this debt could help alleviate the county's significant budget shortfall of $400 million.

The conversation highlighted the county's current debt collection efforts, which reportedly generate around $17 million annually, with a 61% success rate. Committee members expressed concerns about the implications of selling the debt, particularly regarding the future of the 30 employees in the debt collection division. Questions arose about whether outsourcing or selling the debt would lead to job reductions and how the administration plans to address the workforce's future.

One committee member emphasized the need for a comprehensive report detailing the potential impact on employees and the financial implications for the county. They argued that while selling the debt might provide immediate cash flow, it could also affect the department's operations and the employees' roles.

The administration defended the current collection efforts, stating that the department is self-sustaining and operates in a manner that aligns with the county's values. They expressed a preference for keeping debt collection in-house, citing the compassionate approach taken towards residents facing financial difficulties.

As the committee deliberated, it became clear that the decision to sell the debt is not merely a financial one but also a matter of workforce stability and community impact. The committee agreed to request a detailed report within 30 days to assess the feasibility of the proposal and its implications for both the county's finances and its employees.