City of Clearwater – Special DDB / Special City Council Budget Meeting - 9/15/2026

The City of Clearwater held a special Downtown Development Board (DDB) and City Council budget meeting on September 15, 2026. The DDB approved a millage rate of 0.97 mills for fiscal year 2026-2027, expected to generate $523,809 in property tax revenue to support its $1.5 million operating budget. The board also approved a high impact funding request of up to $19,500 for Intensity Academy LLC to produce a family festival event at Coachmen Park. Additionally, the DDB reviewed financial statements and received updates on downtown branding, mobile vending programs, and recent successful events. The City Council set a final millage rate of 5.8773 mills for fiscal year 2026-2027, maintaining the rollback rate, and approved an $800 million total city budget including $190 million for capital improvements. The council also adopted the annual capital improvement budget and six-year plan, with no changes to the Penny for Pinellas project list. Public comments addressed concerns about property taxes, city services, and funding for the Clearwater Beach Library. The meeting included multiple motions and unanimous votes to approve millage rates, operating and capital budgets, and funding allocations, reflecting a focus on fiscal planning and downtown development initiatives.