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Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez announced the return of $962,384 in unused fees to The Children’s Trust, reaffirming his office’s commitment to responsible financial management and community reinvestment.
Under Florida Statute 218.36(2), the Tax Collector’s Office is required to return unused revenues each year to the agencies for which it collects. After covering operating costs, any remaining funds are distributed back to the community through its partner taxing authorities — including The Children’s Trust, which receives a portion of these funds to support programs that directly benefit children and families in Miami-Dade County. By operating efficiently and transparently, the office ensures that every public dollar serves a greater purpose and continues working for the people.
For more than two decades, The Children’s Trust has been one of Miami-Dade’s most impactful community partners, helping children grow up healthy, educated, and safe. Created by local voters, the Trust invests more than $260 million each year in programs that reach over 100,000 children and families across the county, supporting more than 400 local initiatives in areas such as early learning, youth development, health and wellness, and family strengthening. Guided by the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, the Trust works hand in hand with schools, nonprofits, and community partners to build a stronger Miami-Dade for the next generation.
“We live in tough times. Everyone knows the government is tightening budgets and making hard choices,” said Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez. “But we cannot do that to our children. They deserve better. These funds belong to the people of Miami-Dade County, and we are returning them to where they make the greatest impact, in the hands of organizations that lift our families and strengthen our future. I want to thank President and CEO James R. Haj and his incredible team at The Children’s Trust for everything they do to serve our community.”
In Fiscal Year 2025, the Tax Collector’s Office reported a total return of more than $15.2 million in unused fees, including $13.7 million to the County’s General Fund and additional returns to agencies such as the Florida Inland Navigation District, the South Florida Water Management District, and The Children’s Trust. The return to The Children’s Trust highlights the office’s dedication to ensuring public resources are reinvested where they create the greatest positive impact.”
This is what good stewardship looks like,” added Fernandez. “Our residents trust us to do the right thing with their money. By returning unused fees to the people, we are not just closing the books on a fiscal year, we are opening doors for children, families, and the next generation of Miami-Dade.”
For more information or media inquiries, please contact Gianfranco Puppio at press@mdctaxcollector.gov or call (786) 414-0557
