Proposed Fiscal Year 2026-27 Millage Rate & Tax Increase

Spoke about past failures to invest in infrastructure, urging line-by-line budget reviews and careful targeting of tax funds.

Suggested cutting non-essential frills and private-vendor solutions for city events rather than cutting core services.

Voiced frustration over new staffing positions, commissioner communication, and historical municipal management issues.

Criticized past leadership and management for chronic infrastructure neglect, calling for accountability and fiscal prudence.

Spoke on behalf of the Apopka Women's Club, urging commissioners not to cut funding for recreation, community programs, and local nonprofits.

Expressed support for keeping taxes low but acknowledged that a small tax increase is necessary to move the city forward.

Expressed concern that a large tax increase creates hardships for elderly residents on fixed incomes.

Suggested a compromise on the millage rate and questioned the optics of recent public relations hires during a budget deficit.

Reiterated the importance of conducting public line-by-line budget reviews to ensure transparency.

Called for better oversight of staffing and departmental costs.