Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez Moves to End Taxation of Small Bills

Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez is calling on the County Commission to end the practice of sending property tax bills under thirty dollars. Florida law allows counties to stop sending these bills if the Tax Collector recommends it and the Commission approves it. Fernandez said the reform is about basic fairness and common sense.

“We should not spend dollars to collect pennies. These tiny bills cost more to print, mail, and process than they bring in. Taxpayers get stuck with the waste,” said Fernandez. “Government needs to run more like a business. Do not waste time, do not waste money, and do not bother residents with pointless bills.”

He also highlighted the confusion these bills create for residents. “People get these small bills in the mail and wonder why they are being charged twelve or eighteen dollars. It creates stress, confusion, and wasted time for everyone. There is no reason for it.”

Under his proposal, the County would stop sending property tax bills under thirty dollars and the Property Appraiser would not put them on the tax roll. That means less waste, less bureaucracy, and more time spent on real priorities that matter to residents.

In his formal letter to the Commission, Fernandez wrote: “Every time we print, mail, and handle these small bills, taxpayers foot the bill for government waste. Instead of wasting resources, we should focus our time and money on services that actually help people. This simple change protects taxpayers and shows that we take efficiency and responsibility seriously.”

Fernandez said he is urging commissioners to put the item on an upcoming agenda for a vote. “This is common sense. It saves money, it reduces headaches, and it shows respect for the people who pay the bills. It is time to make the change.”

Letter sent to the Miami-Dade County Commission Chairman Anthony Rodriguez: