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High Springs commission approves 2025–26 budget, debate centers on fire and police costs
Summary
The City Commission adopted a millage rate of 6.99 and approved the 2025–26 budget after extended debate about fire and police staffing, overtime and equipment costs. Commissioners and staff agreed to return with potential cost-cutting options for consideration in October.
The City Commission of High Springs on Sept. 15 approved the fiscal year 2025–26 budget and set a final millage rate of 6.99, votes that followed extended discussion about public-safety spending and utility rates.
The budget vote followed a presentation of the millage and a reading of the ordinance adopting the city’s budget. The commission voted on resolution 2025‑L setting the millage and on ordinance 2025‑O5 adopting the budget; both measures were approved as presented.
Why it matters: Commissioners and residents pressed for clearer, near-term steps to reduce the burden on ratepayers after the commission earlier in the budget process approved a series of revenue increases that, as presented at the meeting, include a property tax increase and higher sewer and utility charges.
Discussion and key facts
Commissioner Bloodsworth raised multiple concerns about staffing levels, overtime and equipment in the fire and police departments and urged commissioners and staff to identify potential…
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