City sets final operating millage at 4.6370 mills, a 2.77% increase

The New Smyrna Beach City Commission adopted Resolution 29-26 on Sept. 23, establishing the final operating millage at 4.6370 mills per $1,000 of nonexempt assessed value for fiscal year 2027. Finance Director Drury presented the rate and explained state law requires presenting the percentage change compared with the rollback rate.

Drury said the proposed rate "exceeds the rollback rate of 4.5118 mills, and Florida law requires that it be presented as a 2.77% increase in property taxes." She told the commission the final proposed millage rate generates "an estimated tax levy of approximately 36,700,000" and that the operating rate funds general government services including police, fire, parks, streets and recurring capital needs. The commission voted 4-1 on the resolution; Commissioner Martin recorded a no vote.

The finance director framed the rate as consistent with sustaining essential city services and stated the budget recognizes property tax revenue at a 95% collection rate.