City of Clermont Council Meeting - September 8, 2026

The City of Clermont Council held a workshop meeting on September 8, 2026, primarily focused on discussing the tentative budget for fiscal year 2026-2027. Finance Director Scott Bore presented detailed updates on the budget status, highlighting a projected $4 million surplus in the general fund for the current fiscal year but noting a structural deficit of $870,000 when recurring revenues and expenses are considered. The council discussed the allocation of fund balances, including a proposed resolution to assign $15.8 million of cash reserves toward future projects such as EMS transport, a parking garage, and potential land purchases. There was significant debate among council members regarding the use of reserves for ongoing expenses, the funding and prioritization of capital projects like the "meet in the middle" downtown initiative, and the appropriate millage rate to balance the budget. Several members emphasized the need for further public engagement and detailed financial data before committing to earmarking funds, resulting in no consensus to advance the proposed resolution at this time. The meeting also covered capital budgeting practices, impact fee usage, and grant funding considerations, with council members expressing caution about relying on one-time funds for recurring costs and the implications of pending state amendments on future budgets.