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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final July 9, 2025
<br />million over the proposed amount.
<br />Commissioner Adams inquired about the removal of certain funds, while Vice
<br />Chairman Loar emphasized the importance of the Gifford Neighborhood
<br />Plan, noting its delays. Administrator Titkanich expressed agreement and
<br />highlighted the value of having an independent consulting team to enhance the
<br />Gifford Neighborhood Plan's effectiveness for the community and the County
<br />overall.
<br />Administrator Titkanich recapped that the proposed overall budget was
<br />$597,623,132, reflecting a decrease of $73,305,111 from the amended FY
<br />24/25 budget. The General Fund millage was set at 3.5475, marking a 6.69%
<br />increase over the rollback rate, which was considered a tax increase by law.
<br />The General Fund budget was proposed at $156,920,503, an increase of
<br />$196,559.
<br />For the unincorporated area, the proposed millage was 1.1506 mills, a 6.09%
<br />increase over the rollback rate. The MSTU budget was proposed at
<br />$54,969,931, showing a decrease of $2,285,375. The Transportation Fund
<br />budget was proposed at $27,295,785, a decrease of $1,386,172.
<br />The Emergency Service District had a proposed millage of 2.353 1, a 6.25%
<br />increase over the rollback rate, and its budget was $73,585,471, which was
<br />$9,992,199 less than the previous year. Lastly, the Land Acquisition Bond
<br />Series 2024 proposed millage was 0.0610, and the proposed budget was
<br />$1,843,432, representing an increase of $65,340. Discussions regarding the
<br />proposed millage rates and potential budget changes would be held
<br />individually with the Commissioners.
<br />Chairman Flescher emphasized the importance of being proactive and fiscally
<br />disciplined, taking into account economic concerns and potential revenue
<br />challenges. He noted the need for continued essential services while preparing
<br />for a possible economic downturn. He thanked staff, particularly Kristen
<br />Daniels and Elise Kriss, for their hard work on the budget despite staffing
<br />challenges, as well as other departments and employees for their
<br />contributions. Chairman Flescher also announced the schedule for the
<br />Preliminary Budget Hearing on September 10, 2025, and the Final Budget
<br />Hearing on September 17, 2025, expressing the need to prioritize scheduling
<br />a Special Call August workshop.
<br />A motion was made by Commissioner Earman, seconded by Chairman
<br />Flescher, to approve the proposed millage rates as presented. The
<br />motion carried by the following vote:
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