The Alachua County Commission held a special meeting on August 5, 2025, to discuss the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting focused on key financial updates, including millage rates, budget allocations, and departmental requests.

The county manager presented a recommended millage rate reduction of 0.018 mills for the general fund, while the law enforcement millage rate remained unchanged at 3.5678 mills. The total proposed budget for the county is approximately $944 million, reflecting a 6.85% increase in general fund valuation compared to the previous year. This increase is attributed to ongoing economic growth, although future impacts will be assessed in next year’s valuations.

Significant budget highlights included a 7.2% increase in the MSTU (Municipal Service Taxing Unit) law enforcement budget, which is now set at $2.3 million. The meeting also addressed various assessments, including a slight increase in the fire assessment and a flat stormwater assessment rate of $60. Tipping fees for waste management will remain at $65 per ton.

The county's revenue sources were outlined, with property taxes contributing $285 million and intergovernmental revenues at $61 million, largely due to a growing 1% surtax. However, the county anticipates challenges ahead, including potential reductions in local option sales tax due to new legislation affecting commercial leases, which could result in a $3 million impact over the next seven years.

Discussions also covered departmental budget requests, with no new full-time equivalent positions approved for county staff. The growth management department's budget request was noted as flat, while community support services saw increases primarily due to housing initiatives funded by the surtax.

The meeting concluded with a focus on upcoming projects, including infrastructure improvements and solid waste management strategies. The commission plans to revisit the budget in September, where performance measures will be aligned with the new strategic plan. Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to maintaining fiscal responsibility while addressing community needs and infrastructure development.