County Board presents $10.3B operating budget focusing on public safety and infrastructure

In a recent workshop held by the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners, officials discussed the proposed budget for the fiscal year 2026, highlighting significant financial allocations and challenges facing the county. The overall budget is projected at approximately $10.33 billion, with $3.97 billion earmarked for operating expenses. A substantial portion of this budget, nearly 30%, is allocated to public safety, primarily the Sheriff’s Office and Fire Rescue services.

The meeting underscored the reliance on ad valorem property taxes, which contribute over a third of the county's revenue. The taxable value growth has slowed in recent years, with a current growth rate of 6.8%, expected to decline slightly to 6.3%. This trend reflects broader economic conditions, including rising inflation and interest rates, which have impacted the housing market.

The county's general fund, which is crucial for discretionary spending, stands at about $1.5 billion. The Sheriff’s Office accounts for 55% of this fund, emphasizing the county's commitment to public safety. The operating millage rate for the countywide general fund has decreased to 5.6026 mills, resulting in a modest tax bill for homeowners.

Officials also addressed the challenges of funding public services in unincorporated areas, where demand has surged due to population growth. The unincorporated area general fund, which supports essential services like fire rescue and law enforcement, faces increasing pressure as the population expands. Recent investments have been made to improve response times and service capacity, including the addition of new fire stations and rescue units.

The workshop also touched on the county's capital improvement program, which exceeds $2 billion, focusing on infrastructure projects such as transportation and water services. The upcoming fiscal year will see continued prioritization of public safety and infrastructure maintenance, alongside efforts to identify efficiencies within the budget.

As the county prepares for the next budget workshop in May, officials will further explore issues such as solid waste assessments and the impact of community investment taxes. The discussions reflect a proactive approach to managing the county's financial health while addressing the growing needs of its residents.