Budget presentation: Lantana staff detail reserve use, insurance savings and staffing approach

Town staff presented the highlights of the proposed FY 2026–27 budget at the final public hearing.

The presenter (identified in the transcript as Mr. Kaplan) described a conservative budget that maintains the operating millage at 3.75 mills and includes targeted investments in sewer, water treatment, and capital improvements. “We’ve also taken steps to manage costs, including reducing our property casualty general liability insurance expenses by approximately 150,000,” the presenter said. He added the budget plans a "planned use of approximately 1,400,000 from reserves" for the water and sewer fund and a $300,000 use of building permit reserves to balance the general fund. Utility rates are slated to increase by 4.2% in accordance with town code, the presenter said.

The presenter noted staffing adjustments would be handled, in part, through attrition in light of "amendment three’s uncertainty." He also reminded the council that recent legislation means at least four votes are needed to comply with state statute when certain measures are required. Council members asked no substantive questions following the presentation.