The City of Coconut Creek held a Special City Commission Meeting on September 25, 2025, primarily focused on the adoption of the ad valorem tax operating millage rate and the fiscal year 2026 budget. The meeting marked the second public hearing on two key ordinances: the proposed property tax rate and the budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

Finance and Administrative Services Director Peter Gaylake presented the proposed operating millage rate of 6.8988 mills, which represents a 6.47% increase over the rollback rate of 6.4793. This increase is necessary to maintain service levels and was communicated to property owners in a notice sent out in August. The current millage rate remains unchanged, indicating a stable tax burden for residents despite the increase over the rollback rate.

The budget for fiscal year 2026 was developed with community input and aims to address local needs and priorities, including significant capital projects such as Fire Station 113, police department renovations, and improvements to Main Street. Gaylake acknowledged challenges in budget preparation due to high inflation and reduced revenues but emphasized that the proposed budget is balanced and aligns with the city’s strategic plan.

During the public hearing, no residents signed up to speak regarding the tax rate or budget, and the commission proceeded to vote on both ordinances. The first ordinance, concerning the tax rate, was approved unanimously, followed by the budget ordinance, which also received unanimous support from the commission.

The successful passage of these ordinances ensures that the City of Coconut Creek can continue to provide essential services while addressing community priorities in the upcoming fiscal year.