City Council Discusses Budget Challenges and Employee COLA Increases

The Riviera Beach City Council convened on September 3, 2025, to address several pressing issues related to city infrastructure, budget allocations, and employee compensation. The meeting, which set the stage for the new fiscal year beginning October 1, included discussions on capital projects, property acquisitions, and the need for increased revenue streams.

The first significant topic addressed was the assessment of infrastructure improvements. A council member expressed the need to collaborate with the city manager to evaluate the costs associated with correcting existing infrastructure problems. This assessment aims to provide a clear financial picture to support potential funding requests from federal sources.

Following this, the council discussed the upcoming fiscal year meeting, where they plan to review capital projects and address concerns raised by council members regarding infrastructure needs. The importance of accurate cost estimates was emphasized, as previous evaluations may no longer reflect current market conditions.

The conversation then shifted to property acquisitions, with a council member inquiring about budgeted funds for such purposes. It was noted that while there is no specific line item for property acquisitions, the city typically utilizes contingency funds or collaborates with the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) for strategic purchases. The council recognized the need to focus on key areas, such as the Broadway and Blue Heron corridors, to facilitate future development.

Revenue generation was a critical theme throughout the meeting. Council members highlighted various potential revenue streams, including fire assessments, red light cameras, and updated impact fees. The urgency to implement paid parking was also discussed, as it could alleviate some financial burdens on taxpayers while addressing infrastructure needs.

Employee compensation was another focal point, particularly in light of rising living costs. A council member pointed out that while the county had approved a 6% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for its employees, the city was only offering a 3% increase for non-represented employees. This disparity raised concerns about employee morale and retention. The council agreed to consider a higher adjustment to better align with county standards and ensure fair compensation for city staff.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to addressing infrastructure challenges, exploring new revenue opportunities, and ensuring fair compensation for city employees. The discussions set the groundwork for future decisions that will impact the city's financial health and community welfare as the new fiscal year approaches. The council plans to reconvene on October 1 to further discuss capital projects and budgetary strategies.