Tampa City Council to Hold Public Hearing on $2.04 Billion 2027 Budget on Sept. 22

Tampa residents will have the opportunity to weigh in on the city's proposed $2.04 billion fiscal year 2027 budget and capital improvement program at a public hearing on September 22 at 5:01 p.m.

The hearing will take place at the City Council Chambers in Old City Hall, located at 315 E. Kennedy Blvd. For those unable to attend in person, virtual participation options are available. Pre-registration is mandatory for remote speakers, who must register at tampa.gov/PublicComment at least 24 hours in advance. Speakers should mark their request under “Request Type” and will receive instructions on participation through communications media technology.

The proposed budget outlines a gross total of $2.47 billion before deductions for transfers, reserves, and internal charges totaling $425.4 million. The general fund accounts for $731.3 million of the appropriated budget. Key allocations include $401.2 million for wastewater operations, making it the largest enterprise fund, followed by water operations at $380.6 million. Other significant financial commitments include $171.7 million for self-insurance, $163.6 million for solid waste, $60.3 million for debt service, $94.3 million for community redevelopment agency programs, and $96.9 million for utilities services tax.

The public can watch the proceedings live on Spectrum Channel 640, Frontier Channel 15, or via livestream at tampa.gov/livestream. Copies of the proposed budget are available for review on the city’s website at tampagov.net/budget and at the City Clerk’s Office on the third floor of Old City Hall, open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., excluding city holidays.

Anyone requiring accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act should contact the city’s ADA Coordinator at 813-274-3964 or tampagov.ne at least 48 hours before the proceeding.