Police chief cites 7% increase in FY2027 budget, points to personnel costs and rising traffic enforcement

Police Chief Carlos Avila told the commission the proposed FY2026–27 police budget totals $2,272,981 and represents about a 7% increase over the prior year, driven largely by personnel costs. "The FY 20 26 27 proposed police department budget totals $2,272,981," Avila said during his presentation.

Avila said most of the increase stems from required or contractual costs: step increases tied to collective bargaining, higher retirement contributions and increased insurance and FICA. He noted the department is in active collective bargaining and expects raises tied to that process. "Retirement contributions increased by 23%, reflecting Florida Retirement System mandated employer contribution, rates, and payroll growth," Avila said.

The chief also highlighted operational trends. He reported 1,663 uniform traffic citations issued through June 2026 and said the department is on pace to exceed 3,300 citations by year end, surpassing the 2,667 citations issued in 2025. "At the current pace, the department is projected to exceed 3,300 citations by year end," Avila said. He described other line‑item changes that reduced overtime, travel and training costs while consolidating technology spending into professional services to improve clarity and savings.

Commissioners asked whether the budget preserves officer and resident safety; Avila said he would not cut items that jeopardize safety and that the department can operate with the proposed staffing and resources. The commission thanked the chief and said they will revisit operational and personnel details at the next workshop.