Marion County officials gathered for a crucial public hearing on September 22, 2025, to finalize the fiscal year 2025-26 budget, which totals over $1.65 billion. The meeting, led by Chairman Bridal and attended by all commissioners, focused on adopting the final millage rates and budgets for both countywide and non-countywide funds.

The proposed countywide budget stands at approximately $1.12 billion, while non-countywide entities account for about $534 million. The board discussed the necessity of holding separate public hearings for each budget entity unless a member of the public requests otherwise. This meeting marks the second of two required public hearings before the budget's adoption.

Budget Director Audrey Fowler presented a tentative capital improvement program (CIP) schedule, highlighting a reassignment of project budgets to ensure funding for the consolidated fleet facility. The total estimated cost for this facility has risen to around $24 million, prompting discussions among commissioners about the need for a workshop to further evaluate the project and its funding sources.

In addition to the fleet facility, the board explored potential adjustments to the millage rate, with a proposal to reduce it from 3.35% to 3.3%. This reduction would result in a 4.71% increase over the rollback rate, impacting various funds, including personnel costs for emergency services and capital expenditures.

Public comments were invited, but no residents stepped forward to speak. The board then deliberated on the health unit trust fund, which allocates funds for future capital improvements for the health department. Some commissioners expressed concerns about the necessity of holding onto $787,000 for this purpose, suggesting that it might be more beneficial to redirect those funds to immediate community needs, such as parks and recreation.

As the meeting progressed, discussions turned to the use of ARPA funds, with some commissioners advocating for a one-time tax relief for residents. However, legal concerns were raised about the feasibility of using these funds for special assessments, leading to further debate on the best course of action.

Ultimately, the board reached a consensus to take a closer look at the fleet facility project and its funding in a future workshop, while also considering the allocation of funds for parks and other community projects. The meeting concluded with a brief recess to allow staff to finalize the budget details before the board's final vote. The decisions made during this hearing will have significant implications for Marion County's fiscal health and community services in the coming year.