A major point of contention during the meeting was the proposed millage rate of 6.95 mills. Council members and residents voiced concerns about the rate’s impact on taxpayers and the necessity of maintaining essential city services. The city manager explained that the budget was developed with a collection rate of 95%, a state mandate to meet operational needs. He clarified that the increase aims to fund critical capital equipment, salaries, benefits, and account for inflationary costs.

Resident Alec Greenwood voiced his confusion regarding the format and presentation of the millage rate. He emphasized that other cities in Brevard County, such as Palm Bay and Titusville, had set lower rates. Greenwood’s comments underscored a broader concern among residents about transparency and fairness in the budget process.

The council engaged in a discussion on the implications of the proposed budget, with members questioning the actual increase compared to the previous year and the feasibility of a lower millage rate. The city manager noted that homesteaded property values are capped under the “Save Our Homes” amendment, influencing taxation but distinct from the council-set millage rate.

A key financial aspect discussed was the inadequacy of property tax revenues to sufficiently fund these core services, leading to the suggestion that the proposed tax rate was essential to maintain safety and quality services. An unidentified council member stated, “I know for a fact a lot of people will compensate,” indicating a belief that citizens would accept the tax increase if it meant preserving essential services.

Following extensive discussion, the council approved the final millage rate of 6.95 mills unanimously. Attention then shifted to the fiscal year 2025 budget, with projected revenues and expenditures outlined. The total budget was reported at approximately $174.3 million, with significant funds allocated for capital projects, especially within the Utility Fund. The projected tax revenue was about $15.9 million, while charges for services were estimated at $7.9 million. Notable budget increases included $1.7 million for Public Works and $1.2 million for the fire department, primarily due to the inclusion of a fire truck.

Public comments during this session revealed dissatisfaction with the budget presentation and the public engagement process. One resident criticized the council for limited engagement and transparency, comparing Cocoa’s budget documentation unfavorably to that of Titusville. They highlighted the city’s higher salary increases for staff and questioned the justification for these increases compared to neighboring jurisdictions, urging the council to consider a more transparent budget reporting approach.

Employee retention and funding allocations for parks were also discussed, with council members noting increased pressure to raise salaries due to competition from nearby municipalities like Palm Bay. The council expressed concerns about remaining competitive and retaining quality personnel, given the limited local funding generation capabilities imposed by state legislators. The mayor reiterated the challenges of offering competitive wages and highlighted the city’s struggle to maintain a stable workforce.

Further budgetary discussions included the status of funds previously allocated for Juny Rios Park and the complexities of budget categories. The council acknowledged the need for clarity on budget allocations and the impact of financial increases on residents, especially newer homeowners facing unanticipated tax burdens.

The meeting also addressed a budget resolution related to a drainage improvement project in Broadmore Acres, with the council approving an increase in project contingency funding by $420,000. The session concluded with discussions on the construction of a stormwater system on North Fisk Boulevard. The council approved a proposed budget adjustment to increase the contingency amount due to unforeseen complications related to the sewer connections, a motion that received unanimous support.