Commissioner asks for $300K recurring for county human-trafficking commission; board asks for more detail

TAMPA — During a brief recess at the July 30 budget reconciliation hearing, Commissioner Cameron Tepeda asked the board to approve an additional $300,000 in permanently recurring county funding for the Hillsborough County Commission on Human Trafficking.

Tepeda said the commission currently has $267,000 in recurring funds and that nonprofits’ funding reductions have increased the need for stable county support. “As a county, we must demonstrate our commitment to combating trafficking through stable investment in the commission’s work,” Tepeda said, asking that the funding be included in the FY26 annual budget rather than relying on one-time commissioner flag items.

Several commissioners voiced concern that the request lacked detailed backup on how the money would be spent and whether the monies should come from county reserves or other sources. Commissioner Wolstel recommended rescinding the motion and bringing a full agenda item to a future board meeting with a presentation on expenditure plans and measurable outcomes; Commissioner Bowles and staff discussed whether reserves could be reduced to cover a portion without increasing millage.

Outcome: Tepeda agreed to withdraw and refile the motion with the requested documentation. The board did not vote on the $300,000 recurring request at the hearing; members asked staff and the sponsoring commissioner to provide a written proposal, program plan and budget justification before the item returns.

Why it matters: Commissioners said they support addressing human trafficking but want clarity on scope, deliverables and whether recurring countywide funds are the appropriate vehicle or whether one-time flag items would be preferable. The conversation will continue as the budget process advances.

Next steps: Commissioner Tepeda will resend the motion with supporting backup for consideration at a later meeting or one of the upcoming public budget hearings.