Summary

June 9, 2025 City Council Budget Workshop — Preliminary FY26 Operating Budget and retirement options discussed

DestinJun 9, 20253 min read

At a glance

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Council reviewed the draft FY2026 operating budget totaling $27.3 million (a 2% increase), highlighted a 3% wage increase, a 7% overall personnel cost rise, and a 17% benefits increase largely driven by proposed re-entry into Social Security and the Florida Retirement System (FRS). Staff presented a high-end FRS option (estimated $11.3M) versus remaining with the Thrift Plan ($10.6M) and described a potential hybrid approach (voluntary initial participation with new hires required to join FRS). Council requested more detailed budget backup from Finance, discussed exploring employee cost-sharing for family health coverage (proposed shift from 66.7% to 50%), and confirmed upcoming budget schedule dates for July–September.

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City Council

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LaborBudget & Tax

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Key decisions

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City Manager presented the draft FY26 operating budget (proposed total $27.3M); budget remains in draft form for further refinement.
Draft budget includes proposed re-entry into FRS and Social Security as a higher-cost option; participation described as initially voluntary with new employees required to join FRS if adopted.
Council requested the Finance Director provide detailed budget backup at a level sufficient to reveal drivers behind budget figures.
HR will explore a cost‑sharing model for health insurance, including a proposed reduction in city contribution for family coverage from 66.7% to 50%.
Council proceeded with the published budget schedule: July 1 (certified values), July 14 (Budget Workshop #2 – Capital Projects), July 21 (adopt tentative millage rate), late July detailed briefings, and September 3 & 15 budget hearings.
Meeting adjourned at 6:35 PM.

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