Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget and Property Tax Millage Rate
Summary
A proposed constitutional amendment creating a $250,000 homestead exemption could strip Winter Haven of over $10 million in general fund revenue. Commissioners discussed the need for proactive workshops to review potential budget cuts and revenue alternatives.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 7
- Last 30 days
- 0
Discussed at 3 meetings in the last 60 days; most recently Sep 28, 2026.
Impact analysis
Estimated revenue loss of $10.4 million to the city's general fund, representing over 32% of total ad valorem property tax revenue.
Homesteaded property owners receiving significant tax exemptions.
City services and programs dependent on general fund revenues if alternative funding is not secured.
Mentions & discussions (10)
City Commission - Sep 28, 2026
The city approved a $377.1 million budget and maintained its property tax rate at 6.5900 mills. Commissioners debated whether to tap excess reserves to give residents a tax cut, but ultimately decided to keep reserves healthy for future emergencies.
City Commission Agenda Review Session - Sep 23, 2026
The City Commission reviewed the proposed $377 million budget and 6.5900 mill ad valorem tax rate. While one commissioner suggested exploring tax cuts using fund balances, concerns over future financial uncertainties and potential legislative impacts like Amendment 3 led most officials to support maintaining the current rate.
City Commission Meeting - Sep 15, 2026
The city approved a $377.2 million budget and a steady tax rate of 6.5900 mills to fund rising operational costs, police and fire raises, and major water infrastructure upgrades. One commissioner dissented, arguing for tax relief during tough economic times.
City Commission Agenda Review Session - Sep 9, 2026
The city is setting its property tax rate and budget for the upcoming year. Commissioners are debating whether to stick with the proposed rate or lower it to the 'rollback rate' to provide tax relief to residents.
City Commission Meeting - Jul 27, 2026
The commission set the proposed property tax millage rate at 6.5900 mills for the coming fiscal year, supporting a $372 million budget heavily weighted toward capital infrastructure improvements. Officials also discussed potential revenue impacts from upcoming property tax reform ballot measures.
City Commission Budget Briefing Workshop and Agenda Review Workshop - Jul 22, 2026
City leaders reviewed the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year, outlining municipal spending, service priorities, and financial allocations for Winter Haven.
Winter Haven official says city could lose millions under property tax exemption plan
Winter Haven official says city could lose millions under property tax exemption plan Bay News 9
City Commission Meeting - Jun 8, 2026
A proposed constitutional amendment creating a $250,000 homestead exemption could strip Winter Haven of over $10 million in general fund revenue. Commissioners discussed the need for proactive workshops to review potential budget cuts and revenue alternatives.
Winter Haven looks to hold tax rate steady for 2025 despite tightening budget
Winter Haven looks to hold tax rate steady for 2025 despite tightening budget Lakeland Ledger
Winter Haven adopts $263M budget with same tax rate. Will collect more in property taxes
Winter Haven adopts $263M budget with same tax rate. Will collect more in property taxes Lakeland Ledger
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