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Palmetto Bay sets proposed maximum millage at 2.69 mills after budget debate
Summary
After a lengthy presentation and public comment, the Village Council set a proposed maximum millage rate of 2.69 mills for fiscal 2026–27, citing reserve projections and rising public‑safety and legal costs. The measure passed on a 3–2 vote with councilmembers split over spending versus cuts.
Mayor Karen Cunningham and the Village Council on July 6 approved a proposed maximum millage rate of 2.69 mills for fiscal year 2026–27 following a presentation by Village Manager Nick Marano and public comment. The manager said the rate would structurally balance the budget through 2029 and preserve general fund reserves, while a rollback or lower rate would create a projected structural deficit.
Marano told the council the current millage is 2.3018 and recommended a maximum of 2.69, saying the change would ‘‘fully fund operations’’ and keep the village’s reserves at healthier levels. He calculated the median Palmetto Bay homeowner would pay about $150 more annually under the proposed millage, roughly $12.76 a month.
Residents who addressed the council offered divided advice. Gary Pastorella urged the council to ‘‘approve the highest rate possible’’ to absorb state law changes and avoid cuts; other residents, including Marta Gillette, warned of the impact on seniors and urged caution in light of pending statewide property‑tax changes.
Councilmembers debated whether to adopt a manager‑led opt‑in resident survey to gather budget priorities. Councilmember Marcia Matson objected to the survey’s scientific validity, calling it ‘‘anecdotal’’ (she said it might be misinterpreted by residents), while Councilmember Steve Cody and others supported using the survey as a data point.
Councilmember Patrick Fiore moved to adopt the manager’s recommendation; a separate motion to raise the maximum to 2.75 mills failed. The council then approved the manager’s proposed 2.69‑mill maximum on a 3–2 roll call (Fiore, Cody and Mayor Cunningham in favor; Matson and Vice Mayor Mark Meritzer opposed). The vote gives staff direction for preparing the detailed July budget packet and for public hearings later this summer.
Next steps: The council will consider the detailed FY2026–27 budget at upcoming workshops and must adopt final millage and budget numbers at the statutory hearings this summer.
