Coral Gables Officials Approved $75 Garbage Fee Refunds
Over 11,000 local households will receive checks following a city budget agreement for 2027.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Taxes
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Coral Gables city officials have approved a $75 garbage fee refund for more than 11,000 residents as part of a recent budget deal. The payments will be funded by a fiscal year 2026 surplus.
Why it matters
The refund was secured as a key condition for keeping the municipal property tax rate unchanged for 2027. This agreement ensures stable tax costs for the coming fiscal year while providing immediate relief to eligible homeowners.
The city has allocated a minimum of $832,500 to provide $75 refunds to over 11,000 eligible households. This payment covers a portion of solid waste fees typically collected via property tax bills.
The players
Coral Gables City Commission
The local governing body responsible for setting city tax rates, budget allocations, and municipal fee structures for residents.
Ariel Fernandez
A city commissioner who conditioned his support for the 2027 property tax rate on the approval of these garbage fee refunds.
Waste Management
A waste collection provider whose service contracts determine which residents are ineligible for the municipal refund.
The details
The refund plan resulted from a commission vote to maintain the 2027 property tax rate in exchange for additional senior and veteran relief grants. While single-family homeowners are eligible, residents in condominiums or apartments serviced by Waste Management do not qualify for the payout. The funds are drawn directly from the city's 2026 surplus.
Timeline
September 29, 2026: Commissioners approved the refund and budget deal.
November 1, 2026: Property tax bills including waste fees are issued.
Fiscal Year 2027: The city property tax rate remains unchanged.
2027: Refund checks are expected to be mailed to eligible households.
Money Landscape
This budget decision follows a pattern of localized fiscal adjustments as municipalities prepare for potential revenue changes. The city's actions are set against the backdrop of Florida Amendment 3, which could impact future property tax revenue streams.
Eligible homeowners should watch their mailboxes in the coming months for a $75 check. Residents living in apartments or condos serviced by Waste Management should note they are excluded from this refund program.
The takeaway
The city is returning a portion of its surplus to taxpayers while keeping property tax rates steady for the next fiscal year. If you own a home in the area, verify your eligibility with the city clerk if you do not receive a refund check in the coming months.
Further reading
For more information on local fiscal policies and property tax updates, visit Taxes.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Miami Herald.
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