County Council - Thursday September 3, 2026

The Volusia County Council held a public hearing on September 3, 2026, to discuss and tentatively adopt the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget and millage rates. The recommended gross budget was approximately $1.8 billion, with a net operating budget of about $1.06 billion after accounting for interfund transfers, internal service funds, and reserves. The council reviewed millage rates across multiple taxing funds, including the general fund, law enforcement, library, mosquito control, and fire rescue districts. Most funds proposed maintaining or slightly increasing millage rates above rollback levels to cover rising costs such as personnel wage adjustments, health insurance, and operational expenses. The sheriff's office budget was a significant focus, with council members and public speakers emphasizing the importance of fully funding law enforcement to maintain public safety and address staffing needs. Some council members proposed exploring budget reductions in road subsidies and non-mandated programs, but no cuts to public safety funding were supported. The council voted to tentatively adopt the proposed millage rates and budget, scheduling a final hearing for September 22, 2026. The discussion also acknowledged potential future fiscal challenges related to a pending state amendment that could require significant budget cuts.