Florida TaxWatch released its review of the Broward County School District's Safety, Music & Art, Athletics, Renovations, and Technology (SMART) program in its report "Monitoring and Oversight of General Obligation Bonds to Improve Broward County Schools: SMART Program Quarterly Report for Q3 2023-24." The report was presented to the Broward County Bond Oversight Committee and includes updates on the SMART program’s progress and recommendations to support ongoing efforts.
Florida TaxWatch Senior Vice President of Research Bob Nave stated, “Nearly a decade since the SMART program was initiated – and three years after the original completion deadline – several key projects are still ongoing. When compounded by escalating financial risks and pressing questions that remain unanswered, this should remind us all why the Broward Bond Oversight Committee exists, and what’s more, the importance of Florida TaxWatch’s support role. As the ‘eyes and ears’ of taxpayers in Broward County and beyond, Florida TaxWatch is committed to working with the local school district and its new leadership to help encourage transparency, accountability, and public confidence and support in the use of the general obligation bond funds moving forward.”
To access the full report and an overview of Florida TaxWatch’s work with the Broward County Bond Oversight Committee, please visit their website.
About Florida TaxWatch:
As an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit government watchdog and taxpayer research institute for more than 45 years, Florida TaxWatch works to improve the productivity and accountability of Florida government. Its research recommends productivity enhancements and explains the statewide impact of fiscal and economic policies on taxpayers and businesses. FTW is supported by its membership through voluntary donations and private grants. These contributions have enabled FTW to promote a more effective government accountable to taxpayers since 1979.