Commissioners raise public-service tax in unincorporated Seminole County from 4% to 10%

Seminole County commissioners on Aug. 12 approved an ordinance raising the public-service tax levied on electricity, water service, natural gas and propane in the county’s unincorporated area from 4% to 10%. Management and Budget Director Timothy Jeks told the board the change would generate approximately $13 million annually and that the FY26 proposed budget includes $9.8 million based on nine months of collections beginning Jan. 1, 2026.

“We currently levies 4% on these services in the unincorporated area,” Jeks told the board. “With this item, we're proposing to increase the existing public service tax levy from 4% to 10%.” He also noted the first 300 kilowatt hours of residential use are exempt under county code; a resident commenter asked staff to consider increasing that exemption to 500 kWh under state law to protect low-use customers.

Public comment urged caution on tax increases and requested protections for low-usage households. George Celery urged that the county place the 300-kWh residential exemption into the ordinance to assure protection for low-income households; staff confirmed the existing code includes a 300-kWh residential exemption and that the county is permitted to exempt up to 500 kWh under state law.

Board debate revisited budget pressures and prior cuts. Supporters said the increase helps offset a structural strain on the general fund and funds core services including public safety and transportation. Opponents expressed concern about the added burden on households. The ordinance passed 4–1 with Commissioner Glorie recorded as opposing.

The tax increase applies only to unincorporated Seminole County; cities control their own levies and most already levy 10%. Staff will submit the ordinance to the Florida Department of Revenue by Sept. 3 for collections to begin Jan. 1, 2026.