County Council - Tuesday September 22, 2026

The County Council of Volusia held a meeting on September 22, 2026, primarily focused on the county's budget for fiscal year 2026-2027. The council discussed the proposed millage rates, budget allocations, and the challenges of balancing the budget amid rising costs such as personnel wages, health insurance, and capital infrastructure expenses. Public comments reflected concerns about tax increases, especially on non-homesteaded properties, and the impact on renters. The council debated funding levels for the sheriff's office, community legal services, law library, and economic development programs. A motion was passed to reduce the general fund millage rate to the roll back rate by cutting discretionary funding in the law library and transferring reserves from the economic development fund to maintain road subsidies. The overall budget was approved with a net operating budget of approximately $1.058 billion, reflecting a $6 million reduction from the initial proposal. The council also discussed upcoming requirements related to Senate Bill 1329, which will mandate further budget reductions in the future.