The council brought to light the budget for the 18th Judicial Circuit Court, where Judge Melanie Chase showed appreciation for the approved fiscal year 24 budget and highlighted the success of a new civil general magistrate position. The request for an additional administrative assistant to support the magistrate was met with support from the commissioners. The State Attorney’s office was another focal point, with both gratitude for renovations and the introduction of Will Shiner as the successor to the outgoing State Attorney, Mr. Phil Archer. The council acknowledged Mr. Archer’s service and wished him well in his future endeavors.

Amber Patrick, representing the Guardian Ad Litem, expressed thanks for the agency’s increased budget, detailing their collaborative efforts with community partners. In response, the council members showed their support and appreciation for the agency’s work.

The Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority delivered an overview of their 30-year trajectory, noting the increase in paratransit trips and the region’s population growth. The authority presented a balanced operating budget of $28.15 million and a capital budget of $145.2 million, which includes fleet replacements and facility improvements. Significantly, the operating budget will utilize budget stabilization funds, and there will be no fare increases for the upcoming fiscal year. Commissioner Constantine brought up concerns about the Fern Park super station’s progress and emphasized the potential for new revenue streams such as advertising and interest income.

Discussion regarding the sustainability and affordability of public transportation, particularly SunRail, called into question the projections and the need for financial viability. The council members expressed frustration over the delays in projects like the Oxford Road and the Operation Center, and the importance of more efficient processes was a repeated theme.

The council also reviewed the Florida Department of Health’s budget, which included a decrease in special projects and federal program funding. The department requested continued support for essential services, including communicable disease control, diabetes prevention, and school dental sealant services. The Health Department also reported on its successful outreach efforts through a mobile unit and various health programs funded by grants, such as the cradle seminal nursing home visiting program and delivering a doula difference program.

In a presentation by the office of the Clerk of the Courts, the council was informed about the various improvements and initiatives, including digital services and the successful digitization of official records. The clerk’s budget request included additional positions and a detailed breakdown of costs, with personnel expenses constituting the majority. The Inspector General’s office requested an 88.4% increase for records management, and the proposed transfer of the record center to the county was discussed to reduce its footprint.

The council’s conversation then shifted to the property appraiser’s budget presentation, which outlined a 4% salary increase, 3% insurance increases, and provided a comparison of the county’s budget per capita with neighboring counties. The transparency of the budgeting process and the county’s taxable values were highlighted. The tax collector also presented an overview of the budget process and the anticipated additional unused revenue due to an increase in property values.

Lastly, the sheriff presented the budget for the Sheriff’s Office, noting a 6% overall increase with a focus on personnel and training. A 5% pay increase for employees and the addition of four new positions were discussed, including support for the Sheriff’s Office Police Academy. The sheriff also acknowledged the county’s support in mental health and substance abuse initiatives and the success in reducing opioid overdoses and fatalities in the county.