Q: Where do we stand with regards to the 2026 Budget process?
A: Via the public budget workshops hosted by the county administrator in May, we had our first look at this process. The administrator apparently let the department heads know that at least some of the county commissioners wanted to use the rollback tax rate this year (the tax rate that would generate the same amount of revenue for a taxing authority as the previous year) and it looks like the department heads had this in mind when they submitted their budgets.
Q: Why do you think this is important?
A: I think it’s important for the county to manage its finances and spend money on what we need rather than what we want. When you have to tighten your household’s budget, you look at shopping at places with lower prices, you might conserve gas by combining trips, and prioritizing expenditures. You also look at additional income sources if possible. The county’s biggest needs are catching up on infrastructure, funding public safety, and quality of life — and I feel those should be prioritized.
A cool thing about the Parks and Rec budget is that there is the opportunity to bring in some money; the county dock and county golf course have gift shops that can offset some of the expenditures. Our new parks are coming online partially funded by bonds which, along with our ability to apply for grants for some projects, are new ways to not spend dollars from our general fund.
Q: What is the next step?
A: The county administrator’s budget workshops concluded in May. In June, our constitutional officers will submit their budget requests and then on July 15 at 5:01 p.m., the recommended budget will be submitted to the Board of County Commissioners. We will take public comment at that meeting as well as at every meeting prior to that so that all constituents can have their voices heard regarding their views on how the county is spending their tax payer dollars. [Editor’s Note: Details on these public meetings may be found online at www.sjcfl.us/draft-fiscal-year-2026-budget/]
Q: What is the best way for our readers to contact you?
A: Readers can email me at bcc4kjoseph@sjcfl.us or call me at (904) 679-2620
