Zephyrhills Budget Workshop & City Council Meeting (7-13-2026)

The City of Zephyrhills held a budget workshop and city council meeting on July 13, 2026, focusing extensively on fiscal planning, capital improvement projects, and economic development incentives. Key procurement-related discussions included the proposed millage rate adjustment to 6.25 mills, generating approximately $10.9 million in property tax revenue, and the impact of upcoming homestead exemption changes expected to reduce taxable value by up to $3.5 million in future years. The council reviewed the capital improvement plan for fiscal year 2027, highlighting projects such as Zephr Park, citywide sidewalks, trails, and street resurfacing, with some projects already encumbered and others pending formal solicitation. Funding sources for these projects were discussed, including bond funds, reserves, and potential state appropriations. The council also approved an economic incentive agreement with Monin Incorporated, offering up to $2.6 million in transportation impact fee waivers and permit fee reimbursements to support their manufacturing expansion. Additionally, a pay study was accepted to adjust city employee salaries, with cost implications discussed for various cost-of-living adjustment scenarios. The council passed a resolution adopting a cost-based building permit fee methodology in compliance with recent state legislation, aiming to balance permit revenues with department costs. A stormwater utility assessment rate was also approved, starting at $85 and escalating to $110 over six years to fund stormwater infrastructure improvements. Other procurement-related topics included ongoing negotiations for public works projects, such as the Zephr Park construction and Alice Hall Community Center renovation, and discussions about hiring a full-time civil engineer to support city development and infrastructure projects. The meeting concluded with scheduling future budget workshops and council meetings to finalize the fiscal year 2027 budget.