In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the proposed military budget for fiscal year 2025, highlighting the need for public hearings due to discrepancies in previous advertisements. The millage calendar has been set, with public hearings scheduled for September 5 and September 17, followed by a special meeting on September 18 for the adoption of the FY 25 millage.

The proposed millage rate is set to increase from 16 mills to 18.5 mills, which has raised concerns among residents. While the advertisement indicates a 31% increase, officials clarified that this figure does not reflect an actual increase in property taxes, as it is based on the rollback rate mandated by state law. For example, homeowners with properties valued at $250,000 would see an annual increase of approximately $261.54, translating to about $21.80 per month.

During the public hearing segment, residents expressed confusion and concern regarding how the proposed millage would affect their property taxes. One resident, Leticia Williams, sought clarification on the implications of the millage increase, while another, Mary Matthews, voiced her worries about the financial burden on homeowners, particularly seniors and families facing economic challenges.

Officials acknowledged the concerns raised and emphasized their commitment to exploring ways to alleviate the tax burden on residents. They reiterated that the budget must be balanced in accordance with state requirements, which may necessitate adjustments in operations or slight increases in property taxes to maintain essential services.

The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges faced by local governments in managing budgets while addressing the financial realities of their constituents. The upcoming public hearings will provide further opportunities for residents to voice their opinions and seek clarity on the proposed changes.