County Council 1st Public Budget Hearing - Thursday, September 3, 2026

The County Council of Volusia held its 1st Public Budget Hearing on September 3, 2026, to discuss the recommended fiscal year 2026-2027 budget. The meeting focused heavily on setting millage rates for various county funds, including the general fund, law enforcement, library, fire rescue, and special districts. The council reviewed proposed millage rates, many of which were set slightly above rollback rates to accommodate wage adjustments, staffing needs, and operational costs. Significant discussion centered on funding for the Sheriff's Office, with public comments and council members debating the necessity of budget increases versus rollback to control tax growth. The council ultimately approved tentative millage rates mostly maintaining or slightly increasing current levels, including a general fund rate of 3.2007 mills and a law enforcement fund rate of 1.5994 mills. Motions were passed to adopt a tentative gross budget of approximately $1.8 billion, with a net operating budget of about $1.06 billion, and to schedule a second public hearing for final adoption on September 22, 2026. The meeting also included motions to explore potential reductions in road subsidies and other programs, though no immediate cuts to public safety funding were approved. Overall, the council emphasized balancing fiscal responsibility with maintaining essential public safety and county services amid concerns about potential impacts from upcoming state amendments.