The meeting began with a presentation from the Chief Financial Officer, Ashley Gossit, who outlined the budget preparation process that spanned nine months. She highlighted key aspects of the budget, including the unchanged millage rate and the city’s debt-free status. The presentation included significant figures such as the 7.8% rise in taxable property values, adding $400 million in new property value to Jacksonville Beach. Notably, $108 million of this was attributed to new construction.

Discussions also touched upon adjustments made following budget workshops, including a $50,000 project for a community service center study. Clarification was sought on whether this allocation should be a net addition or a swap with funds previously set aside for a lifeguard station, which had received a million-dollar grant from Jacksonville. The council ultimately decided to retain the current allocation to maintain budgetary balance.

Concerns were raised about a potential deficit, with expenditures projected at $248 million against revenues of $222 million. However, it was clarified that the city operates on a pay-as-you-go basis and would draw from savings to fund capital projects, emphasizing that this approach avoids incurring debt.