Administrator Michael Hammond addressed the attendees, detailing the current state of the county’s budget. He highlighted the challenges posed by recent tax cuts, noting that while the county’s financial health remains stable, the potential for continued double-digit growth is unlikely. He emphasized the need to balance revenues and expenditures closely, pointing out that the county’s reserve levels and disaster fund are satisfactory, but the budget is essentially balanced, with only a minimal difference of about $40,000 between revenues and expenditures.

Hammond reported that the total levy for the year was set at $22,503,000, with the countywide valuation reaching an all-time high of $3,580,000, an increase from the previous year. He explained the disparities between the School Board levy and the county levy, attributing these differences to varying tax caps and exemptions. Significant budget items highlighted included funding for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and allocations for the Sheriff’s office and other constitutional officers. Additionally, $100,000 was set aside for county park renovations, due to ongoing maintenance issues, and another $100,000 allocated for firefighter incentives. A $50,000 allocation was also made for a city summer program.

Following Hammond’s remarks, Sherry provided details required for the TRIM (Truth in Millage) compliance. She noted the aggregate mill rate set at 6.2850, representing a 5.69% increase over the rollback rate, and requested permission to make necessary adjustments to the budget before the final hearing. These adjustments, she assured, would not affect the total fund amount.

A notable request came from the City of Wewahitchka, seeking $95,000 in funding, including $10,000 for fireworks. However, they later requested an additional $20,000, totaling $30,000 for fireworks. Council members deliberated on whether this request was equitable compared to funding provided to the City of Port St. Joe, which hosts two fireworks sessions annually. There was a suggestion to grant Wewahitchka an additional $10,000 instead of the full $20,000, considering the number of events each city hosts. The council aimed to ensure equitable treatment of all parts of the county while mindful of budget constraints.

The discussions included various perspectives on past funding and the rationale behind proposed adjustments, emphasizing fairness in budget allocations. The conversation concluded with an agreement to consider the nuances of each request while being mindful of overall budget constraints.

The meeting also saw a discussion regarding funding for the Fourth of July fireworks celebration. One member proposed scaling down the financial contribution, noting that the current allocation seemed excessive. Britney provided an estimate for the upcoming year’s fireworks cost at $181, compared to the previous year’s $165. A proposal was made to increase funding by $10,000, perceived as sufficient to cover the fireworks expenses, with a motion made and seconded. With no public opposition, the motion passed unanimously.

The council then addressed additional budgetary matters, particularly regarding reserves and infrastructure funds. A recommendation was made to adjust the budget to reflect the changes associated with fireworks funding, suggesting a reduction in infrastructure funding by $10,000 to accommodate the increase in the fireworks budget. This adjustment was also moved and seconded, passing unanimously.

Constitutional officers were invited to provide input, with one officer thanking the board for their budget session and the funding received. There were discussions on employee leave payouts, highlighting a budgeted amount of $40,000, and concerns about the Beach Patrol needing a new vehicle, with funds requested to be carried over for this purpose.

Further discussions focused on maintaining a clean budget without overestimating or underestimating figures. One member suggested budgeting individual districts at zero, with final numbers addressed when more concrete figures were available. This approach was agreed upon.

The council also adopted resolutions regarding the tentative millage rate and budget for the fiscal year 2024-2025. The millage rate was noted as being greater than the rollback rate, and the budget detailed appropriations and revenue estimates amounting to approximately $123 million. Both resolutions passed without public opposition, emphasizing transparency and fiscal responsibility.

Additionally, several bid items were discussed. Bids for the Jones Homestead booster station and White City Water Plant were tabled, rejected, or awarded, based on recommendations and budget adjustments. A representative from the clerk’s office proposed transitioning to digital advertising for public notices, authorized by recent legislation, potentially saving $60,000 to $70,000 annually on print ads. The council expressed interest in this shift, planning to vote on the proposal in the September meeting.