Pasco utility department outlines budget plans to streamline operations and improve services

The Port Richey City Council held a budget workshop on July 22, 2025, focusing on key financial decisions that will impact local services and infrastructure. A significant highlight was the discussion surrounding the implementation of a new cloud-based system for police vehicles and body cameras, aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency in law enforcement operations. The proposed system promises to streamline evidence collection, reducing the time officers spend on paperwork from 20-30 minutes to under five minutes, allowing them to focus more on community safety.

The council also reviewed various appropriations, including an $800,000 allocation for a new fire truck and $1 million for lift station repairs. These funds are part of a broader strategy to improve public safety and utility services, with the fire truck's cost already partially covered by previous appropriations. Additionally, a $2.5 million pipe replacement project is underway, with funding sourced from the Penny for Pasco initiative.

In discussions about utility services, the council proposed a 3% increase in water and sewer rates, which is expected to align customer deposits with actual usage. This adjustment comes in response to recent losses from businesses that failed to pay their bills, highlighting the need for more robust financial safeguards.

The workshop also touched on stormwater management, with a planned 3% increase in stormwater fees to support upgrades and additional personnel. Council members expressed concerns about stagnant water in local ditches and discussed potential improvements to enhance drainage and aesthetics.

Looking ahead, the council emphasized the importance of utilizing impact fees effectively, particularly for transportation projects like the expansion of Grand Boulevard. They acknowledged the need for a comprehensive stormwater master plan to address ongoing drainage issues and improve the city's infrastructure.

As the council prepares for the upcoming budget meeting, they aim to ensure that all departments justify their funding requests, aligning expenditures with community needs and long-term goals. The discussions from this workshop reflect a commitment to enhancing public safety, improving utility services, and addressing infrastructure challenges in Port Richey.