Commission holds first reading of FY2026–27 budget, approves ordinance for consideration

The City Commission held the first reading of Ordinance 2026-22, which contains the proposed FY2026–27 budget for all city funds and an updated five-year capital improvement plan.

Ms. Burns reviewed the budget highlights: the millage rate is proposed to remain at 7.5 mills; the ordinance includes the recently adopted increase to the fire assessment fee, a general wage increase of 3% for pay grades 19 and below and 2% for pay grades 19 and above, plus up to 2% merit based on performance. Capital items noted in the ordinance include the purchase of a fire truck, $950,000 for paving, funding to begin construction of the Middleton House and phase 1 work on the Lake Maria Sanchez flood mitigation project. Utilities rates would increase by 3.5% while the surcharge for outside-city customers would decrease by 5%; stormwater and solid waste rates are proposed to rise by 4.2%.

Ms. Burns also said one new code enforcement officer position is included, funded by short-term rental fees, and the ordinance reflects the removal of four general-fund positions. Commissioners praised staff for securing grants for resilience projects and said the budget reflects community priorities like paving and sidewalks.

City staff described the Lake Maria Sanchez project as benefiting roughly 200 acres of the historic downtown core and protecting about 186 structures at flood risk; phase 1 work is moving forward. After discussion, a motion to approve the ordinance on first reading was made, seconded and carried on roll call. The ordinance will return for final adoption at a subsequent meeting.