Florida CFO Criticizes Miami Spending, Calls for Tax Reduction

The Florida Chief Financial Officer, Blaise Ingoglia, recently announced concerns over Miami’s spending for the 2025 budget. At a press conference held on October 23, 2025, in downtown Miami, Ingoglia claimed the city’s budget, which relies heavily on tax funding, is inflated.

Miami’s 2025 Budget Overview

Ingoglia emphasized that the proposed $1.2 billion budget for 2025 exceeds reasonable limits when adjusted for inflation and population growth. He highlighted that if Miami had restricted spending increases to just these factors since 2000, the budget would be approximately $95 million lower than projected.

Key Points from Ingoglia’s Argument

• Miami’s budget is funded primarily through property taxes, which account for about 50% of the general funds.
• Spending per resident has increased by 40% from 2020 to 2024, rising from $2,235 to $3,129.
• Ingoglia has called for local governments to cut property taxes and reduce budgets without compromising essential services.

Political Context

Ingoglia, a candidate for a full term starting in 2026, has previously criticized excessive government spending, using his “Government Gone Wild” slogan. His visit coincided with Mayor Francis Suarez’s tenure, who is term-limited and defending Miami’s fiscal actions.

In response to Ingoglia’s claims, Mayor Suarez highlighted recent decisions to lower tax rates while maintaining essential services. He argued that Miami’s fiscal management reflects discipline and accountability.

Reactions and Future Implications

City Manager Art Noriega dismissed Ingoglia’s analysis as politically motivated, asserting that Miami’s budgetary requirements are more complex than the CFO suggests. He pointed out that the city provides services to many non-residents, which further complicates financial assessments.

Despite the dispute, some local leaders, including Commissioner Joe Carollo, expressed agreement with Ingoglia’s call for budget reductions, suggesting there is room for trimming expenses.

Looking Ahead

As the political landscape evolves, the campaign for tax reductions has gained momentum across Florida. Ingoglia and Governor Ron DeSantis are advocating for constitutional amendments to mandate tax cuts, particularly targeting property taxes on primary residences.

The debate over Miami’s budget and spending practices is expected to continue, especially with upcoming mayoral elections and potential audits of the city’s financial operations.