Preliminary Operating Millage Rate Remains the Same with Increased Level of Service

Sarasota, FL: The Commission has set the preliminary operating millage rate for Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget at 3.0 mills, the same rate as the current year. This represents Commissioners’ commitment to fiscal responsibility while meeting strategic plan goals and enhancing the level of service for the community.

The proposed budget includes the creation of a Real Time Operations Center within the Sarasota Police Department with four full-time positions to safeguard the community using advanced technology. Cyber security remains a high priority with additional funding allocated to strengthen the City’s cyber defenses. To continue providing excellent customer service with growing workloads, new positions are proposed for the Development Services, Financial Administration, Public Works and Parks and Recreation departments, including a code compliance inspector, arborist, accounts receivable coordinator, maintenance mechanic and building maintenance technician.

Funds also are allocated for a downtown master plan, water transit planning and design, update to the transportation chapter of the Comprehensive Plan and a traffic calming plan.

The Capital Improvement Plan totals $30.8 million for infrastructure improvements for Fiscal Year 2024-25 focusing on environmental, public safety, public health, transportation infrastructure, neighborhoods and parks and recreation projects.

The preliminary millage rate will be transmitted to the Sarasota County Property Appraiser, which will compile all proposed millage rates for individual properties and issue a TRIM (Truth in Millage) notice later this summer.

Two public hearings for adoption will be held at City Hall, 1565 First St.: