The City is of Homestead is wise in performing an annexation feasibility study for the areas described above. A study does not mean it's a done deal. On the contrary, the study will allow for a facts based analysis to determine if the annexation of these areas is of mutual benefit to both parties. Without data all we have is conjecture and diatribe. The citizens of these areas are in a great position to benefit from this study in that it will provide them with valuable information regarding their properties and the immediate surroundings. If in fact the areas are beneficial to Homestead, they may be beneficial to other cities for annexation purposes.
The move to full incorporation is underway in all of Miami-Dade county and even more so as the budget for the Unincorporated Municipal Services Area (UMSA) shrinks. The shrinking is due in part to the many years of county government subsidizing the UMSA budget to low ball the millage rate thereby discouraging incorporation and annexation. However, it has come to an end due to the Great Recession of 2007-2009 and ongoing economic malaise in the county. No longer can the county afford the level of services provided to UMSA at bargain millage rates. With the upcoming county budget shortfall of $50M, the problem only becomes more acute and UMSA's budget will suffer as a result.
The City of Homestead has a lot to offer. Homestead has its own Police Department with better response rates than Miami-Dade County Cutler Ridge Police Sub-Station. A City Council in near proximity whereby residents can air their grievances as shown during the Annexation Workshop. Local zoning and planing that is in-tune with the rural makeup of southwestern Miami-Dade and its growing commercial and residential areas on the east side. Local utilities department providing responsive and courteous service at competitive rates. These are only some of the benefits of living in Homestead proper and it behooves the areas considered for annexation to honestly evaluate and compare them with the services provided by UMSA or other cities that may come along desiring to annex their areas.
A meeting to further discuss the Annexation Study will be held at the William F. "Bill" Dickinson Community Center located at 1601 N. Krome Avenue on Wednesday, May 15th at 6:00PM proceeding a City Council meeting, which commences at 5:00PM.
Reference Miami Herald Article Below:
Homestead considers annexing nearby lands - Homestead / South Dade - MiamiHerald.com
Reference South Dade News Leader Article Below:
http://southdadenewsleader.com/issue/south-dade-news-leader/article/homestead-to-discuss-annexation-study-wednesday
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