A Miami Beach city commissioner wants to eliminate thousands of dollars in annual vehicle, cellphone and expense stipends paid to the mayor and City Commission. Commissioner David Suarez introduced the resolution, arguing the city should trim its own perks before asking departments to absorb projected tax cuts from Amendment 3. He estimates the changes could save the city about $500,000 a year.
According to city records reviewed by CBS News Miami, commissioners earn a base salary of $6,000 a year, and the mayor earns just under $10,000. On top of that, elected officials can receive up to $2,600 a year for cellphones and up to $9,500 a year in car stipends. A separate mayor and commission allowance can reach $42,000 annually.
Suarez, who said he has never accepted a city salary or stipend, wants lump-sum allowances replaced with receipt-based reimbursements. He also wants to overhaul pensions, which officials currently qualify for after one term. “We are part-time elected officials,” he said.
A state study estimates Amendment 3 could cost Miami Beach more than $11 million in 2027 and more than $22 million in 2028.
Mayor Steven Meiner said the city planned ahead and is in a strong financial position. He pointed to two years of lower property tax rates, record reserves and a recent bond rating upgrade. Meiner also noted that he cast the lone dissenting vote in a 6-1 decision approving stipend increases in March 2024. Residents who saw the figures were split on whether the amounts are justified.
The resolution is on the agenda for the Miami Beach City Commission meeting on Nov. 18.
