Winter Garden adopts FY2026–27 budget, sets millage at 4.8565 mills

The City Commission of Winter Garden unanimously adopted Ordinance 26-18 setting the FY2026–27 ad valorem millage at 4.8565 mills and approved companion ordinances appropriating the budget. The clerk read the ordinance on the second hearing, stating the levy is "at the rate of 4.8565 mills. That is $4.8565 for every $1,000 of assessed valuation." Staff recommended approval, saying the balanced budget preserves financial stability while investing in public safety and major infrastructure projects.

Commissioners opened the public hearing and heard no public opposition before moving to adopt the millage and associated appropriation ordinances. The clerk’s presentation on the appropriation (Ordinance 26-19) listed ad valorem collections of $32,606,994 and other revenues of $42,637,077 for total revenues of $75,244,071. After brief questions about ranking among neighboring taxing authorities — staff said Winter Garden remains near the lower end within Orange County — the commission approved the ordinances by unanimous voice vote. The commission also adopted Ordinance 26-21 to complete the citywide appropriation in accordance with the city charter and Florida Statute 166.241.