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Cocoa manager presents balanced $195 million budget; staff and consultants recommend steady millage and modest utility increases
Summary
City Manager Witten presented a balanced FY2026 budget proposal and Stantec’s financial analysis recommending the current millage be maintained, a 3% annual increase to the fire assessment, 4% annual increases for water and sewer, and no stormwater increase for FY2026.
City Manager Witten on Tuesday presented a balanced FY2026 budget proposal and a financial outlook showing the city can hold its current property tax rate while covering planned operating and capital needs without drawing on general-fund savings. Stantec consultant Peter Napoli told the council his 10-year model supports keeping the millage rate steady and applying modest, phased increases to enterprise and special-assessment rates.
The budget proposal totals approximately $195 million, roughly 12% higher than the prior year, driven mainly by utility capital work. The general fund is about $52 million. Witten said taxable value rose about 6.1% this year to nearly $1.9 billion, and that water-utility revenue remains “our financial lifeline,” covering an estimated $22 million–$24 million that helps fund general government services.
Stantec’…
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