Riviera Beach City Council Adopts Operating Budget with Millage Rate Maintained at 8.35

During the recent Riviera Beach City Council meeting held on September 3, 2025, key discussions centered around the adoption of the operating budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Chief Financial Officer Randy Sherman presented the budget, emphasizing that the millage rate would remain unchanged at 8.35 mills for the fourth consecutive year. This stability in the millage rate is significant as it reflects the city's commitment to maintaining tax levels amidst rising property values.

Sherman highlighted that the assessed value of properties in Riviera Beach has increased, yet the millage rate continues to represent only about 39% of the total property tax bill for residents. This is particularly relevant for homeowners, as it indicates that while property values are climbing, the city's tax burden remains consistent.

The budget discussions revealed that there were limited changes to the financial plan, primarily due to requests for appropriations exceeding available revenue by over $10 million. This gap has constrained the city’s ability to introduce new programs. However, the budget does include the addition of nine new firefighter positions, aligning with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) contract, and salary increases for unionized staff, including those represented by SEIU and PMSA.

Additionally, the budget accounts for a 4.9% increase in health insurance costs and includes funding for new fire stations, which amounted to approximately $50 million. Community grants and programs initiated in fiscal year 2025 have been maintained at their current funding levels for the next fiscal year.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city's financial strategy of balancing fiscal responsibility with the need to support essential services and community programs. As the council moves forward, the focus will likely remain on addressing the budgetary constraints while ensuring that the needs of the community are met effectively.