Board of Commissioners Public Hearing - October 1, 2026

The Camden County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on October 1, 2026, regarding the proposed 2026 millage rates. Staff reviewed the FY2027 general fund budget of approximately $50.8 million and the $3 million unincorporated fund, which supports operating costs for fire, rescue, parks, and right-of-way mowing; no capital expenditures were planned from the unincorporated fund. The county projected approximately $32 million in revenue and a FY2027 year-end general fund balance of $13.3 million, about 26% of the current-year budget. Commissioners discussed rebuilding fund balance after using it to balance prior budgets and maintaining financial capacity ahead of borrowing for a future public safety complex, preliminarily described as potentially costing about $60 million. The specific proposed millage rates were not clear in the transcript.

Public commenters raised concerns about the effect of a tax increase on residents with fixed incomes, asked the county to consider a smaller increase, and urged commissioners to seek broader public feedback. A commissioner suggested making clearer information about increases in major budget costs available on the county website. The hearing included no contract awards, bids, vendor selections, or other procurement actions. A motion and second to adjourn the public hearing are audible, but the transcript does not capture the result of a vote.