The Sarasota County government held its Final Budget Public Hearing on September 24, 2025, where officials adopted the final aggregate millage rate and budget for the fiscal year 2026. The final aggregate millage rate was set at 3.8512 mills, reflecting a 3.35% increase from the current year's rollback rate of 3.7262 mills. This rate is essential to support the countywide budget, which totals $2,524,495,075.

The budget includes several specific millage rates, with the general operating millage established at 3.2273 mills, marking a 2.78% increase from the rollback rate of 3.1399 mills. Additionally, the mosquito control district millage increased by 16.33% to 0.052 mills, while various voted debt service millages were also confirmed, including 0.0667 mills for the Environmental Services Land Purchase Program (ESLPP) and 0.0382 mills for the Legacy Trail extension.

The meeting also detailed the final millage rates for various lighting districts across the county. Notably, Aqualane Estates saw a significant decrease of 35.83% in its lighting millage, while other districts like Bay Point and Centeredgate Estates also experienced reductions of 27.35% and 24.94%, respectively. Conversely, the Emergency Medical Services District millage increased by 9.07% to 0.73 mills.

Overall, the budget resolution, numbered 2025-163, outlines the financial framework for Sarasota County, aiming to address essential services and infrastructure needs while managing tax rates for residents. The adoption of these rates and the budget signifies the county's commitment to fiscal responsibility and community service as it prepares for the upcoming fiscal year.