Coral Springs officials invite residents to learn how tax dollars are spent through informal budget talks at local coffee shops

Coral Springs, Florida – Residents in Coral Springs will soon have a unique opportunity to get a clearer understanding of how their local government decides where tax dollars are spent — and they won’t have to set foot inside a government building to do it. Instead, city officials are heading out to local coffee shops, offering residents a chance to ask questions and engage in conversations about the city’s budget over a casual cup of coffee.
The city’s Department of Budget & Sustainability is organizing a series of informal gatherings throughout the community as part of an outreach effort tied to the annual budget process. From August 18 through August 22, officials will make stops at various coffee shops around Coral Springs, as well as City Hall, to meet directly with the people they serve. The purpose is simple — explain how the budget works, answer questions, and hear what matters most to residents when it comes to how the city spends public funds.
“This is a great opportunity for residents who want to understand where their tax dollars go and how decisions are made when it comes to city spending,” officials said. “It’s meant to be informal, friendly, and informative.”
The week kicks off on Monday, August 18 at 10 a.m. at Downtown Espresso, located at 3111 N. University Drive. The following day, Tuesday, August 19 at 2 p.m., the conversation continues at Ella Cafe, 4691 N. University Drive. For those who can’t make it during the day, the city is also hosting an evening session at City Hall on Wednesday, August 20 at 5 p.m., located at 9500 W. Sample Road.
The informal meetings continue Thursday, August 21 at 2 p.m. at The Little Coffee Shoppe, 10732 Wiles Road. The final stop will be on Friday, August 22 at 10 a.m. at Felicita’s Coffee Soul, 921 N. University Drive.
These coffee shop visits are designed to break down barriers between city officials and the people they serve. Residents often find budget discussions complicated or intimidating, but city leaders hope that a relaxed atmosphere will encourage more people to get involved and voice their thoughts.
City staff made it clear that these gatherings aren’t about free coffee or handouts. “City staff will cover the cost of their own beverages — residents are responsible for theirs,” they noted. The focus remains solely on connecting with the community and fostering open dialogue.
Budget talks often shape how city services operate — from public safety to parks, road maintenance, and sustainability efforts. For Coral Springs residents who care about how those decisions are made, these small gatherings offer a front-row seat.
More details and updates about these events can typically be found on the city’s official website or through its social media platforms.