2026 State of the City - A Connected Community

Published on March 13, 2026

City-Hall.jpg

More than 200 people attended the 2026 State of the City. Thank you if you joined us at City Hall or watched virtually. We hope you enjoyed the presentation and the opportunity to connect with fellow residents, City officials and community leaders. 

 

This year’s theme – A Connected Community – highlighted achievements and progress from 2025 and priorities for 2026, including infrastructure improvements, new development and redevelopment projects like Main Street Exchange and The Flats on Main, a finance update and information on proposed state legislation to reduce or eliminate property taxes.

 

“A Connected Community doesn't happen by accident,” said Mayor Moe Freaney. “It happens because of the organizations, the nonprofits, the local businesses, the civic partners, the volunteers, and the everyday residents who make Dunedin delightfully different.”

 

Highlights include:

  • Marina reconstruction began last fall and continues, despite delays in FEMA reimbursement.
  • The boat ramp remains closed. The goal is to open the boat ramp for residents only in 2026. This decision is supported by the City Marina Advisory Committee.
  • The fishing pier should be completed by the end of year – and the City is committed to holding the 2026 Boat Parade.
  • More than 14 capital projects, an investment of $25 million, have been started or completed, supporting critical water and wastewater infrastructure.
  • Impact of tourism to the region and Dunedin--total economic impact of the Blue Jays in 2025 was $200 million and 1,600 jobs.
  • Cyber Crime incident from 2024 addressed, including an update on the man arrested in Pinellas County jail, awaiting trial. How the City has taken significant steps to enhance internal controls. And how the City recovered the money through the bank, cyber crime insurance and risk-safety fund.
  • Possible impacts of property tax reduction or elimination could be a loss of $4 million to $9 million – which would leave parks, recreation, library and streets open to drastic cuts as the City would have to protect public safety.

Stay engaged by following us on social media, attending community events, and participating in city initiatives and programs. And please be sure you are subscribed to the weekly DunediNEWS – the best way to stay connected and informed. 

 

You can view the full presentation and individual videos available on our website. 

Tagged as:
Back to top