Summary

Council Adopts Budget and Approves Trail Projects

ZephyrhillsSep 22, 20252 min read

At a glance

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The council adopted a $135.9 million fiscal 2025–2026 budget and retained the 6.25-mill property tax rate, described as a 2.71% increase over the rollback rate. The budget includes $70 million for capital projects, including the City Yard Complex and Zephyr Park redesign. Council also approved $201,000 in trail-design work for additions along Wire Road and Fort King Highway.

Projects mentioned

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Advent Health Rezoning

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City Council

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TransportationBudget & TaxCommerceUtilities

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What this means

Residents will see the city continue using a 6.25-mill property tax rate while funding major capital projects in the adopted budget. The approved trail designs are intended to improve pedestrian connections and may be constructed in partnership with Pasco County. The council also advanced a 22.72-acre rezoning near Advent Health Hospital to support potential hospital expansion and parking, with restrictions on several commercial uses.

Key decisions

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Adopted Ordinance No. 1506-25 on second reading, retaining the 6.25-mill rate for fiscal year 2026–2027; the rollback rate was 6.05 mills and the difference was reported as a 2.71% increase.
Adopted the $135.9 million fiscal 2025–2026 budget, including $70 million for capital projects such as the City Yard Complex and Zephyr Park redesign.
Approved the first reading of a rezoning for approximately 22.72 acres near Advent Health Hospital from R-4 and PUD to C-3 to allow potential hospital expansion and improved parking; voluntary deed restrictions prohibit uses including hotels, auto repair, pawn shops, and bars.
Approved an $89,000 work order for design of the Wire Road Trail addition.
Approved a $112,000 work order for design of the Fort King Highway Trail addition.
Approved the purchase of 3,500 water meters, with an estimated savings of approximately $91,612.50 before anticipated tariff and price increases.
Approved the consent agenda, including gravity sewer lining, utility agreements, grant and transportation-related agreements, officer wage and article amendments, airport task orders, and stormwater fee implementation work.
Approved the bid award for auditing services to Clifton Larson & Allen, LLP; a contract was to be presented later.
Approved alcohol use for the Sabor Latino, Paulie Palooza, and Boots in the Hills special events.

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