Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Pasco County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
4 issues in taxes budget with high priority
FY 2027 budget and rolled-back millage
The Board confirmed the general operating millage will drop to the rolled-back rate of 7.2488 for the final budget hearing. They also sparred with the Sheriff's Office over ~$5 million in school SRO costs and insurance reserves, and discussed Amendment 3 town halls.
FY 2027 Tentative Millage and Fire MSTU Restructure
Commissioners kept millage rates flat while shifting about half of rescue funding into the Fire MSTU, with a matching cut to general operating. The rest moves next year; final rates come at the September 9 hearing, pending the November property tax amendment.
Mobility fee increase to fund road backlog
Commissioners flagged Florida unemployment rising to 4.6 percent and pressed the EDC to check whether incentivized employers still plan the jobs they promised as AI reshapes hiring. The pending mobility fee increase — first hearing held — will shape what new development pays for roads.
State legislative impacts on local government
Commissioners are worried about two Tallahassee bills: SB 1548 could force subsidized housing on publicly owned land — including county parkland like Two Rivers — and a proposed homestead exemption bill could punch a $6 million hole in the county budget in year one. The board heads to Tallahassee this week to push back.