One notable issue discussed was the potential for raising taxes to support the budget, with members expressing strong opposition to increasing the financial burden on residents. One member highlighted a collective sentiment, stating, “we were not in agreement with any type of raising taxes on the residents to accomplish that,” reflecting the committee’s hesitation to impose additional costs on the community. Alternative revenue strategies were debated, including a proposed $250 road and drainage assessment and a $450 solid waste assessment, with suggestions to either increase assessments by $50 or raise the millage rate by 65%, generating an additional $375,000 needed for the budget.

Concerns were raised about the town’s reserves, which were projected at about 36% in the general fund. It was argued that to maintain services without increasing taxes, reserves would need to be reduced below the recommended minimum level of 25%. There was a call for a motion to formally request that the council include the Finance Advisory Committee in budget discussions, particularly if sufficient progress was not made during the allocated session. This motion was voted in favor of by the committee.

A significant portion of the discussion focused on the public works budget. One member noted the discrepancy between the number of positions and employees, indicating, “I see 22 different positions in public works but we only have 11 employees,” suggesting a need for detailed scrutiny at the budgetary level. The committee also examined the financial structure of commercial garbage collection, noting that businesses contract directly with haulers based on service levels, contributing approximately $21,000 to the general fund through franchise fees.

The economic implications of potential developments in nearby areas were also discussed, specifically referencing a horse show in Wellington and its impact on property values in Loxahatchee Groves. Concerns were voiced that a decline in such events could drop property values, affecting local businesses and tourism.

Further budget specifics revealed that general fund transfers to roads, drainage, and the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) amounted to $790,000 out of a $4.2 million budget. The law enforcement contract with the Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) was scrutinized, accounting for $668,000 or approximately 15% of the overall budget. Legal services were budgeted at $360,000 across various categories, and the building fund was noted to be self-sustaining with revenues intended to cover its $377,000 expenses.

Staffing and salary increases were another focal point. The committee discussed the building department’s projected expenses of $377,000 against expected revenue of $330,000 from permits. The necessity of hiring an additional full-time employee was questioned, given the significant increase in salaries from $82,000 to $171,000. It was suggested that hiring two part-time employees could lessen the financial burden of benefits associated with full-time staff. Concerns were also raised about the proposed salary increases for permit technicians and the impact of overtime costs, leading to a debate on whether to defer hiring until the financial situation improved.

The importance of retaining staff while being mindful of the economic conditions faced by residents was emphasized throughout the meeting. The conversation included discussions about solid waste fees and the suggestion that RV and commercial users contribute more towards trash removal services to prevent an increase in the flat fee charged to residents. One member shared their personal experience, noting that while some residents generate significant waste, the fee increase would be reasonable given the service level provided.

The committee reached a consensus against raising taxes or assessments, expressing a shared desire to explore cost-cutting measures and maximize efficiency within the town’s operations. There was a call for more detailed documentation to inform decision-making, particularly regarding salary figures and the overall financial health of the town.

Towards the end of the meeting, a motion was proposed to ensure no increases in road and drainage assessments or property taxes, while being open to raising fees for trash removal. This motion passed with some opposition, encouraging management to improve revenue collection processes. A separate motion supported the budget for three part-time code enforcement officers, addressing the necessity of addressing numerous code violations in the community.