Treasurer outlines strong year‑to‑date balances, proposes roughly 4% budget increase for 2027

The Lauderdale Lakes Lake Management District Treasurer reported year‑to‑date finances and presented a first draft of the 2027 budget.

For the five months ending May 31 the Treasurer reported an excess of revenue over expenses of $263,000 and a balance sheet total of $274,000, which reflects starting balances and reserve transfers. The Treasurer said the district began the year with $100,000 from prior years, and the clubhouse reserve started with $61,000 and then received $228,000 in deposits (tax levies of $88,000; golf course transfers of $40,000; and fundraising of $100,000). Disbursements totaled $125,000, including the first loan payment made in March, leaving an ending cash balance of $164,000 after accounting for expected parking‑lot payments.

The Treasurer also reported the fundraising account held about $17,000 after a $100,000 transfer to special projects. The district received a $50,000 state reimbursement for 2025 water patrol expenses. The aquatic plant management equipment reserve has $55,000 budgeted and additional funds expected to come from prior leftover funds for a weed harvester.

On the budget, the Treasurer presented a first draft for 2027 proposing about a 4% overall increase. Key variables called out were wages for water‑safety patrol officers and expanded coverage for Clean Boats, Clean Waters. The draft anticipates a post‑operating excess of about $110,000 with $85,000 earmarked for reserves.

No final budget action was taken; the item was presented as a first draft for further consideration.