St. Lucie County BOCC Tentative Budget Hearing, Sept. 3, 2026

The St. Lucie County Board of County Commissioners held a tentative budget hearing on September 3, 2026, to adopt the tentative millage rates and budget for fiscal year 2026-2027. The board approved a tentative aggregate millage rate of 7.8341 mills, reflecting a slight decrease from the previous year. The recommended budget totals approximately $971.3 million, with $628.8 million in new revenue, including $373 million from property taxes. Key budget allocations include funding for constitutional officers, the sheriff's office, judicial agencies, and community programs. The board discussed potential financial impacts from state and federal changes, including Amendment Three, which could significantly reduce property tax revenues, and FEMA grant rule changes. Strategies to address potential revenue losses include efficiency improvements, service reductions, project pauses, and exploring new revenue sources. Public comment included concerns about the county's airport budget and its use primarily by affluent residents. The board unanimously approved the tentative millage rates and budget and scheduled a final budget hearing for September 17, 2026.