The most significant issue discussed was the proposed millage rate for the upcoming fiscal year, set at 6.59 mills. This increase, attributed to rising operating costs and capital project needs, was detailed in Ordinance 0-24 D43. The city attorney presented the ordinance, explaining it is essential to fund the city’s projected expenditures. Winter Haven ranks ninth among Polk County’s eighteen taxing jurisdictions in tax rate.

During the public hearing, Craig T. White voiced concerns about the millage rate increase, particularly its impact on residents on fixed incomes. White emphasized, “A lot of the people here are on fixed incomes retired… we did not get a wage increase of this percentage, and so this is going to be a lot of money.” He also pointed out that while new residents increase tax revenue, they also place additional demands on city services. In response, it was clarified that the millage rate itself had not increased compared to the previous year; higher property values led to increased tax revenues.

Following the public comments, the meeting transitioned to Ordinance 0-24-44, addressing municipal government expenses for fiscal year 2024-2025. The city manager summarized the budget, which totals approximately $263.6 million, including $27.79 million from ad valorem revenues. Key allocations include $250,000 for affordable housing, $320,000 for nonprofit grants, and funding for homeless initiatives. The budget also accommodates the addition of six new police officers and various part-time positions tied to recreational and cultural expansions. Approximately 45% of the total budget will go toward capital investments, while personnel costs account for about $60 million, around 20% of the budget.

A discussion regarding the city budget emphasized public safety as the largest expense within the general fund, comprising approximately $30.7 million, or about 42% of operations. Rising costs were attributed to salary increases surpassing assumption rates, lower than expected early-year returns, and the longevity of retirees impacting pension payouts.

The city’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) was also addressed, with anticipated revenue for the Florence Villa district estimated at $1.3 million and around $3.75 million for the downtown district. These funds are recommended for various capital investments as discussed with the advisory committee.

Several specific projects were highlighted in the budget presentation, including the addition of two correctional institute crews for maintenance activities across city sectors, such as fire stations, parks, and trails. Notable improvements are planned for Lions Park, the Women’s Club building, and the Garden Center, as well as operational enhancements at activity fields. Adjustmentsirport improvements, with a budget of over $5.2 million, will be funded through federal and state grants.

Further capital projects include the Winter Haven Recreation and Cultural Center and developments at Chain Lake Park, where renovations are underway for new baseball fields. The Lake Elbert Trail project is scheduled for completion by summer 2025. Fire Station 4 is expected to open in the fall, and designs for Fire Station 5 are ongoing. Multiple transportation initiatives were reviewed, including the second phase of the Pard Road project and various sidewalk projects around Lake Howard.

The commission also deliberated over ordinance 0-24-36, amending the Winter Haven comprehensive plan by revising the future land use designation for a specific parcel to accommodate low-density multifamily housing. The representative for the applicant emphasized the compatibility of this change with surrounding residential uses, addressing potential compatibility issues with existing zoning regulations.

Another major topic was an ordinance concerning adjustments to the city’s water and sewer utility rates, which included a comprehensive revision of the rate schedule for the next five years. This study recommended annual increases of 2.5% for water and 7.5% for sewer rates. The need for these changes was attributed to rising operational and maintenance costs, particularly for aging infrastructure. During the public hearing, Susie Casey expressed concerns.

The commission then discussed Ordinance 02-2442, proposing an increase in sewer connection fees from $962,500 to $7,000. The proposed fee schedule, based on a financial study, will not take effect until January 2025.

The meeting also included the appointment of a new voting member to the Polk Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) board, prompted by recent census data indicating growth in Polk County. The commission recommended Tracy Mercer as the new voting member, and the resolution passed without dissent.

The commissioners discussed potential risks associated with partially constructed subdivisions and the safeguards in place to protect the city from potential legal ramifications.