From Staff Reports
The Apopka City Council voted 4-0 on September 3rd at the first of two budget hearings to approve the City’s tentative budget for the 2025–26 fiscal year. The spending plan funds a wide range of services, including public safety, parks and recreation, infrastructure, and city administration.
Commissioner Nick Nesta recused himself from the tentative budget vote because of an unnamed conflict of interest. According to Nesta, the conflict involved a non-profit organization that was part of the budget.
The council voted 5-0 to approve the millage rate of 4.4376 mills, which was a decrease from the 2024/25 rate of 4.6876.
According to Commissioner Diane Velazquez, the lower millage rate was in response to rising utility rates.
"With all the increases, this is a way of giving back to the taxpayers," said Velazquez.
Mayor Bryan Nelson concurred with her assessment.
"I can assure you there is no one in central Florida reducing their rates," said Nelson. "As much as people are angry with us over utility rates, we're going to try to help the residents. This is a better way than reducing water rates."
Wednesday’s vote followed three July budget workshops, during which department leaders outlined their needs and priorities.
The final budget hearing is scheduled for September 17th at 6 pm.
The 2025/26 budget takes effect on October 1st, the start of the new fiscal year.
