Cocoa council sets proposed millage at 6.9532 mills after debate; rollback resolution established

The Cocoa City Council on July 28 moved the budget process forward by establishing the rollback rate and approving a proposed millage rate to be advertised in property-tax notices, following an extended debate about service levels and taxpayer burden.

Staff recommended a proposed millage of 6.9532 mills to support the balanced FY2027 budget; that rate would yield roughly $13.6 million in property-tax revenue and an increase of about $432,952 over last year based on final gross taxable value. Finance Director Rebecca Bowman and City Manager Witten reviewed options: the mathematical rollback rate was calculated at 6.8648 mills, and staff cautioned that going to rollback would require roughly $173,000 in cuts to maintain a balanced budget without a super-majority.

Council first approved the resolution establishing the rollback rate of 6.8648 mills unanimously. On the proposed millage of 6.9532 mills, the vote was 3 in favor and 2 opposed; the clerk recorded nays from Councilwoman Koss and Councilwoman Weeks. The proposed rate will be advertised and the first public hearing set for Sept. 9, 2026 at 5 p.m.

What was said: Council members supporting rollback argued the financial difference was small and would show empathy to residents "who are hurting," while others stressed that the small amount would risk service cuts including police vehicles, street paving and equipment replacements. "If you don't accept [the proposed budget], then you tell me how to get back to the cuts," the city manager said during the staff presentation. The manager and finance director provided detailed line items council could target if it directs cuts.

Why it matters: The decision determines what rate is advertised to taxpayers and shapes the next steps in the FY2027 budget process; the final binding vote will occur at a later hearing where a super-majority may be required depending on the adopted rate.