The Zephyrhills City Council on Monday approved on first reading a tentative $135.9 million budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year, following a public hearing.
The proposed budget totals $135,911,380 and will guide city operations, services, and projects for the next fiscal year. City Council also set the property tax rate at 6.25 mills that is 2.71 percent above the rolled-back rate of 6.0848 mills. The rolled-back rate represents the tax level that would generate the same revenue as the previous year, excluding new construction.
The millage rate determines how much property owners will pay in ad valorem taxes to fund city services and operations. At 6.25 mills, property owners will pay $6.25 for every $1,000 of taxable property value.
Ordinance No. 1507-25, which formalizes the budget spending plan, must be approved on a second reading before it takes effect.
The budget process is an annual requirement for Florida municipalities, with public hearings held to ensure transparency and give residents a chance to weigh in on spending priorities.