The board’s concern about the sewer project was matched by its focus on the town’s financial health. The senior accountant at the town of Highland Beach, Susan Matthews, presented the annual comprehensive fiscal report for 2023, emphasizing a clean audit with zero findings and highlighting increases in both expenses and revenues. The report celebrated the town’s financial success and underscored the importance of long-term planning.

A significant part of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the town’s strong financial health, strategic priorities, and the proposed operating budget. The board expressed the intention to maintain millage rates steady and the ability to add to reserves in some years and use them in others to balance the budget. This strategy aimed to avoid fluctuating millage rates based on property growth.

The successful implementation of the first fire rescue department in the county in 35 years was another focal point of pride for the board. The project was completed on time and under budget, with the board also securing state appropriations for the fire station. Moreover, the board outlined accomplishments such as passing three referendums, adjusting the charter spending limit, and securing a second state appropriation. Approval of sea turtle lighting, beach erosion management, and capital projects like fence replacement, sewer rehabilitation, lift station repairs, and bridge maintenance were also discussed.

The board raised concerns about the increasing police department budget, attributed mainly to retirement and health benefits, and the need to start replenishing reserves during economically favorable times. They also emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong tax base while managing the tax rate to continue providing top-notch services to residents.

Another point was the general fund budget for 2025, which decreased due to the fire department construction completion, with the main drivers being cost of living increases, salaries, and health insurance. The discussion then turned to the discretionary sales tax fund, which is set to expire on December 31, 2026. The board expressed concerns over the county’s decision not to renew it and the implications for future general fund expenditures.

The building fund’s status was also discussed, with the board indicating the need to pull excess reserves for improvements and maintenance, despite a projected revenue drop-off related to the Gulfstream interlocal agreement. Additionally, the water fund’s goal of becoming self-sustaining by 2025 was highlighted, emphasizing the need for the water and sewer funds to be self-sufficient without relying on the general fund.

The transition of the fire department to the town’s control was addressed, with the financial implications of hiring 24 firefighters and associated retirement costs being a topic of discussion. The board reviewed the town’s general fund balance, which stood at $7.05 million, with a proposed addition of $250,000 in the fiscal year.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the establishment of the maximum millage rate and various insurance costs. While there was debate about making formal recommendations to the commission, particularly concerning the priority of the sewer relining project, the board decided against formal recommendations but agreed on the necessity to expedite the sewer project.