Written by Miami Today on February 11, 2026
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TAX CHOICES: Seven potential state constitutional amendments labeled property tax reforms would cost Miami-Dade governments anywhere from $31.4 million to $2.305 billion a year, depending on which the legislature chose and voters approved in November, says new a report by the nonpartisan Florida Policy Institute. The estimates are from Florida’s Revenue Estimating Conference. All resolutions would prohibit localities from reducing funds for law enforcement, with firefighters and other first responders now being added. “The passage of any of these resolutions would force local governments to cut other public services or increase taxes to conform” to that, the institute’s analysis said. “The resolutions would also benefit wealthy homeowners at the expense of tax fairness.” Other than an accrued save-our-homes property tax benefit for non-school property tax, which would cost $31.4 million, each of the other six would cost Miami-Dade governments $581 million or more per year.
DIRECT OTTAWA FLIGHTS: Miami International Airport now has nonstop flights three days a week linking the airport with Ottawa International Airport. Porter Airlines began the new route Jan. 24, creating more international connectivity by the Latin American and Caribbean hub of Porter’s codeshare partner, American Airlines. “I am thrilled that Porter Airlines has enlarged its presence at MIA by re-establishing nonstop air service between Miami-Dade County and Canada’s capital city, which hasn’t existed since early 2020,” said Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “Ottawa is now MIA’s fourth Canadian destination, creating another nonstop option between our community and our neighbors to the north.” Florida tourism leaders recently reached out to Canada to build visitation after the state registered 507,000 visitors from Canada during the third quarter of last year, down from 597,000 during the third quarter of 2024.
SPRING BREAK BREAK: Miami Beach commissioners voted last week to ease some spring break restrictions for March. This spring, the city will host several fitness events, including a half-marathon on South Beach. More street parking will be available, fewer barricades will be used, sidewalk cafes will remain open and city parking garages will operate with rates starting at $40 and as high as $100. City leaders said stricter measures could be reinstated quickly if safety conditions deteriorate. As seen in recent years, visitors can expect a heavy police presence along with DUI and security checkpoints.
GAS PRICES DIP: Average gasoline prices in Miami fell 5 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.86, according to GasBuddy.
These are some of the FYIs in this week’s edition. The entire content of this week’s FYIs and Insider sections is available by subscription only. To subscribe click here.