Pinecrest Voted to Increase Property Taxes

The Lake at Pinecrest Gardens

Hey fellow Pinecrest residents…did you know the Village of Pinecrest voted to increase our property taxes to bring the parrots back?

The Village Council voted 3/2 on a proposed tentative 65% increase in the milleage rate. OUTRAGEOUS !!!!  Shannon Del Prado and Vice Mayor Jerry Greenberg were the only dissenting votes.

While this rate is tenative, it sets a ceiling for what the final rate could be.  Our current rate is 2.3 and the village voted in favor of raising it to a whopping 3.86. OUTRAGEOUS!

Here’s what Shannon had to say about it.

• “My concern is simple: In a time of rising insurance premiums, inflationary concerns, and market uncertainty, I believe that our focus should be on cutting costs where necessary — not raising taxes.
• Pinecrest was again named the #1 place to raise a family in 2025.For 30 years, we have successfully delivered core services: public safety, infrastructure and quality of life — at a modest tax rate. We must continue our 30-year policy of sound fiscal stewardship.”

One reason the council voted to support this dramatic increase is to cover the cost of  relocating the Jungle Island parrots back to Pinecrest Gardens.  This could run $1.5-$3 million in initial costs.  Read the Miami Herald article  published yesterday to learn more about it.  While I support moving the beloved parrots back to Pinecrest, it will be costly.  And there are other solutions for raising capital to support the move. How about benefactors, a capital campaign, or simply asking for donations.  Jungle Island should contribute as well. There must be a financial reason they’re letting the birds fly the coop.  Send me an email with any suggestions you have.