The Dunedin City Commission held a workshop on June 2, 2026, at 9:00 AM at City Hall. The meeting included a Juneteenth proclamation, citizen input, and three major discussion items: proposed restrictions on motorized watercraft launching from the Dunedin Causeway, the FY 2027 City Commission line-item budget, and a starred item on state property tax reform. Commissioners also recognized staff achievements and announced community events.
Staff presented a detailed review of causeway usage, environmental impacts, and public safety. Key points included:
Public input:
Commission comments: All commissioners voiced support. They emphasized the restriction is about public use, safety, environmental preservation, and quality of life, not being anti-jet ski. They noted the availability of alternative launch sites (e.g., Seminole Boulevard ramp, Sutherland boat ramp) and that the proposed ordinance would apply to all motorized watercraft launching from the causeway.
Finance Director Tyler presented the draft budget, showing a 15% increase in insurance costs, citywide operating cost reductions of nearly $1 million, and a proposed reduction in commissioner training from $1,500 to $1,000. Commissioner Dugard raised concerns about the impact on travel and education costs, especially for 50th anniversary events and new commissioners. The commission agreed to keep training at $1,500 per commissioner.
Strategy & Sustainability Manager Delfino provided an update on state legislation (SJR 2-F) that would increase the homestead exemption to $150,000 (FY2028) or $250,000 (FY2029), reducing Dunedin's revenue by $4.2 million and $6.3 million respectively. The bill, currently debated in the Senate, would also cap ad valorem spending categories and affect non-homestead property. Delfino noted the bill is moving quickly, with amendments exempting schools and removing a trust fund component. Commissioners and staff expressed strong opposition, calling the process rushed and irresponsible. They discussed potential impacts on services, the need for public education, and coordination with the Florida League of Cities and Suncoast League. No formal vote was taken, but direction was given to prepare fact sheets and a communications plan.
Morning. And welcome to the June 2nd, 2026 City Commission workshop. Like to call this meeting to order. The group in the back is pretty rowdy, I can tell. You know. Especially Claudia, I see she's still talking, Claudia. All right, here we go. Um we're going to start with Pledge of Allegiance, Jen. Can you lead us? Pledge allegiance. United States in America. One nation. Under God, individual liberty, and justice for all. Okay, we're going to go to our presentations and we only have one today. It's the 2026 Juneteenth proclamation. I will turn it to Commissioner Gow. Thank you very much, Mayor. Teresa, would you please come forward to accept this? I'm I'm excited and I'm honored to be able to read this proclamation for you this morning. A proclamation recognizing Juneteenth. Whereas our nation was conceived on July 4th, 1776 with a Declaration of Independence, which includes the statement, we hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal. They are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. And whereas on June 19, 1865, more than two years after the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation by President Abraham Lincoln, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas to announce that enslaved African Americans were free, marking a significant milestone in the end of slavery in the United States. And whereas this day, known as Juneteenth, represents both the triumph of the freedom and the enduring pursuit of equality, justice, and opportunity for all. And whereas Juneteenth has been celebrated for generations as a time to reflect on our nation's history, honor this resilience and contributions of African Americans, and the recommit to building a more just and inclusive society. And whereas since 1991, Florida leaders and legislators have celebrated and acknowledged through declaration, resolution, designation, memorial, and emancipation of slaves in Florida following the Civil War. And whereas in 2021, Juneteenth was officially recognized as a federal holiday, affirming its importance in our shared national heritage. And whereas communities across the country commemorate Juneteenth through education, cultural events, service, and reflection, fostering greater understanding and unity among all people. And whereas it is essential to acknowledge the historical significance of this day and to continue working toward equity, dignity, and respect for every individual. And whereas Juneteenth will be celebrated in the City of Dunedin with various events and activities, including an employee in service day and community event to provide Dunedin residents and city employees with the opportunity to learn, reflect, and celebrate, like so many others throughout the nation. Now therefore, I, Jeff Gao, by the virtue of the authority vested in me by the mayor of the City of Dunedin, and on behalf of this entire City Commission, to hereby proclaim June 19th, 2026 as Juneteenth Day in the City of Dunedin, and encourage all residents to observe this day as a historically significant event in the heritage of our city and nation. It is my honor to accept this proclamation, recognizing Juneteenth, a day that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States, but also celebrates freedom, resilience, and progress. Juneteenth reminds us of our nation's history and the ongoing importance of equality, inclusion, opportunity, and justice for all. It is a time to reflect on the struggles and achievements of those who came before us while recommitting ourselves to building inclusive and welcoming communities in which everyone, regardless of race or ethnic background, has a sense of belonging and being seen. At the city, we recognize Juneteenth during our annual Employee in Service Day to be held this year on Thursday, June 18th. This day is an opportunity for City of Dunedin employees to work together on community service activities, learn from each other, and celebrate our diverse employee population. Our theme this year is celebrating our diversity, looking toward the future. Thank you again for this proclamation in recognition of Juneteenth. Thank you, Teresa. All right, thank you. Okay. We will go to citizens input. Is there anyone in the audience that wishes to speak on a topic that is not on the agenda? This would be your time to come forward. Name and address for the record, and uh you have three minutes. Come on down. Good morning. My name is Kathleen Sands Martin. I reside at 428 Orangewood Drive, Dunedin. Is the button push there?