Mayor - Commission Work Session | June 11, 2026

The West Palm Beach Mayor and City Commission held a budget development work session on June 11, 2026, focusing primarily on the financial impacts of a proposed property tax ballot measure and the ongoing police department building remediation project. City officials presented detailed analyses of the potential revenue reductions from the ballot measure, which could significantly affect the general fund, especially non-public safety expenditures. The commission discussed the scope and escalating costs of the police building mold remediation and reconstruction, with estimates of $18 million needed to complete the project versus a $264 million estimated cost for constructing a new police facility. Funding strategies, including the use of undesignated fund balances and potential bond issuance, were reviewed. The session also covered projected budget increases, union contract negotiations, and the possibility of millage rate reductions, with commissioners expressing concerns about balancing budget cuts and maintaining services. Additionally, the commission addressed the need for a future discussion on reclassification and pay grades for commission aides, noting challenges with HR department involvement. No formal votes were taken, but staff sought direction on millage reduction scenarios and budget adjustments for the upcoming fiscal year.