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Largo adopts 5.52‑mill tax rate and final $309 million budget amid objections from one commissioner
Summary
The City Commission approved a 5.52‑mill property tax rate and a final FY2026 budget that sets general fund spending at $125.2 million and citywide expenditures at $309.0 million; Commissioner Smith voted against the tax rate and budget, citing conflict with city financial policies.
The Largo City Commission on Tuesday adopted a property tax rate of 5.52 mills for fiscal year 2026 and approved the city’s final annual budget, which allocates $125,184,500 to the general fund and $309,016,400 across all funds. City staff said the rate is 4.78% above the rollback rate and estimates an average homestead property impact of $24 to $31 for the year.
City staff introduced the ordinance on second reading and presented the FY2026 spending plan during the required second public hearing. The staff presentation noted no changes since the tentative budget and projected an ending general fund balance of 17.8% for FY2026. “The 5.52 millage rate requires a super majority vote of 5 out of 7,” staff told the commission prior to the vote.
During public comment, Matt Boston told the commission the proposed budget violates three formally adopted financial policies — fund balance targets, operating budget discipline and revenue recognition rules — arguing the plan draws down reserves to cover recurring expenses. “You’re voting for a budget that violates 3 of your formally adopted financial policies,” Boston said.
Commissioner Smith said she would vote against the measures, citing concerns about the city’s fund‑balance targets and the broader economic climate. Despite the objections, the commission voted 5–2 to adopt the tax ordinance and then approved the final budget 6–1.
The commission and staff said they plan to continue reviewing budget projections and engage commissioners in work sessions in the coming months to address long‑term fiscal planning. The budget and tax rate become effective with the fiscal year starting Oct. 1, 2025.
