West Melbourne Council Eyes $97.9M Budget

West Melbourne's proposed $97,934,580 budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year would reduce overall spending by 7.28% from the amended 2025-26 budget, City Manager Tim Rhode told the City Council on Sept. 9. The council held its budget public hearing at City Hall, 2240 Minton Road.

The proposed millage rate is 1.7724 per $1,000 of taxable value, the rollback rate advertised by the city. Rhode reported the city's ad valorem revenue totals about $6 million. He also informed Deputy Mayor Alexis McGuire that the city could lose approximately $1.1 million in the first year if Amendment 3 passes.

Within the General Fund, personnel spending would increase 10.16%, maintenance and operations would decrease 0.92%, and capital outlay would drop 26.42%. Total expenditures are projected to fall 7.06% from the prior year. Rhode noted that the larger appropriated fund balance reflects significant capital projects underway, many grant-funded, including anticipated improvements for residents near the St. Johns River.

The capital plan includes $3 million for public land acquisition, $2 million for Henry Avenue improvements, $2 million for a Building Department building with council chambers, $1 million for a Public Works administration building, $625,000 for Sheridan Road sidewalks, and $250,000 for a City Hall remodel. The plan also allocates funds for two vehicles for the Building Department, nine for the Police Department, and two service trucks for the Water/Wastewater departments.

Projected reserves include $12.8 million in unassigned General Fund balance, $1.36 million in the stormwater utility fund, $2.33 million in the Developer Impact Fee Fund, $3.28 million in the Community Redevelopment Agency fund, and $2.32 million in the internal vehicle replacement fund. Rhode mentioned that local gas tax money arrives monthly from the state, though delays can occur.

During the hearing, Council Member Helen Voltz inquired about the future of the current council chamber after a new building opens. Rhode stated the council would conduct an in-depth construction discussion, recalling that demolition had been discussed during work on the Parks Master Plan.

The meeting also included September proclamations for National Suicide Prevention Month, presented to Denise St. Cyr of 211 Brevard, and National Service Dog Month, presented to Canine Companions representatives.