NORTH PORT, Fla. — North Port could change how the city pays for projects with the upcoming referendum on the Nov. 5 ballot, promising a transformative shift for local governance.
“It’s unsustainable:” North Port could change how the city pays for projects
“Right now we have a pay-as-you-go way of keeping up with infrastructure,” explained Yarborough. “That creates two main challenges. First, as savings accumulate, construction costs continually rise. Second, current citizens bear the financial burden.”
This perspective resonates within the community. Yarborough highlighted the shortcomings of a pay-as-you-go system, which often leaves essential projects unfunded or delayed. “This approach complicates efforts to ensure fairness and equity among residents,” they stated.
Additionally, the existing financial structure has hindered the city’s ability to secure federal or state loans, a gap exposed following Hurricane Ian’s devastation. “Our inability to receive federal and state low-interest or no-interest grants is a significant problem,” Yarborough continued. “While other cities like Tampa, Orlando, and Sarasota successfully secure funding, we remain restricted due to an outdated city charter.”
Envision a community where infrastructure maintenance is not something residents need to fear will fall through the cracks. The North Port Wastewater Treatment Plant, a crucial facility, stands as a reminder of local needs that require immediate attention. “You can’t simply postpone essential repairs,” expressed Nancy Gallinaro, the Utilities Director. “Without the ability to borrow funds, current water rates will keep climbing, putting additional pressure on our residents. It’s an unsustainable cycle.”
If the referendum passes, North Port’s leadership would gain the ability to borrow up to $15 million per project specifically for infrastructure maintenance, emergency responses, and public health initiatives.
“There is no city within Florida’s 411 cities that operates under a charter as restrictive as ours,” Yarborough stated sharply. “We’re advocating for a standard approach. We need to keep pace with infrastructure demands and respond adequately to natural disasters for the safety of our people.”
As the Nov. 5 vote draws near, the residents of North Port will consider the proposed amendment to their City Charter:
Florida local governments may issue certain debt for various governmental purposes. The City Charter requires voter approval before the City issues any debt. Should the Charter be amended, allowing the City to issue debt payable from funds other than property taxes without voter approval: (i) for safety and public health projects with a maximum principal amount of $15,000,000, increasing annually based on a cost index; and (ii) to respond to a declared emergency or disaster?
For this measure to pass, it must garner more than 50% of voter approval, marking a pivotal moment for the community. To further expand understanding of this referendum, CLICK HERE.
