County begins fiscal year 26 budget process focusing on community needs and development

The Flagler County Commission convened on February 10, 2025, to discuss several pressing issues, including property management, community needs, and the upcoming fiscal year 2026 budget development.

The meeting began with a discussion regarding a property lien situation, where a representative highlighted the county's potential to file a lien of $1,000 per day, which could accumulate to over $90,000. The speaker emphasized the urgency of addressing a property that has remained undeveloped for 13 years, suggesting that the county could acquire it at no cost due to existing liens. The speaker proposed various community uses for the land, such as a park or a church with a playground, stressing the lack of local amenities in the Plantation Bay area.

Following this, Budget Officer Miss Petito presented the fiscal year 2026 budget development process. She outlined the structured approach mandated by Florida statutes, emphasizing the importance of aligning the budget with the county's strategic priorities while ensuring transparency and community engagement. The budget process includes pre-budget assessments, departmental proposals, and public input opportunities, with a timeline extending from December 2024 through September 2025 for final adoption.

Petito highlighted key funding priorities for the upcoming budget, including beach management and employee retention, while aiming for a balanced budget that reflects fiscal responsibility. She noted potential uncertainties, such as union negotiations and legislative changes, that could impact financial planning.

The meeting concluded with a call for the board's approval of the budget guidelines and calendar, marking the official kickoff for the budget development process. The commission expressed a commitment to working collaboratively to create a budget that supports community growth and addresses the evolving needs of Flagler County residents.