Titusville council adopts FY2026 budget, 6.3-mill rate and utility fee increases

Titusville — The Titusville City Council on Sept. 18 approved the city—Y2026 operating budget, set a 6.3-mill ad valorem tax rate and adopted related rate changes for water, sewer and solid-waste service during a special public hearing and vote.

The council voted unanimously to set the operating millage at 6.3 mills, a 1.71% increase over the rolled-back rate of 6.1938, which the finance director said would generate $878,669 in additional ad valorem revenue over the FY2025 adopted budget. Council members also approved the city—udget ordinance and separate ordinances to raise water and sewer rates, increase residential and commercial solid-waste charges, and adopt the enterprise fund and capital improvements program budgets for FY2026.

The finance director (referred to in the transcript as "Terry") opened the hearing by reminding the council that it must adopt the millage rate before adopting the budget and that the public may comment before votes. "The operating millage rate to be levied is 6.3 mils," Terry said during the presentation, noting the rate is 1.71% above the rolled-back rate and complies with applicable Florida law referenced during the hearing. The director said the additional revenue is intended to fund a 3% cost-of-living adjustment, public-safety technology, vehicles and equipment and higher consumable costs due to inflation.

Council discussion ranged across…