High Springs Sets Budget And Declares Emergency Ahead Of Hurricane

HIGH SPRINGS ‒ The High Springs City Commission met Monday, Sept. 23, 2024, to address several key issues, including the City’s millage rate, budget for Fiscal Year 2024-25, utility rate changes, and a state of emergency declaration ahead of a looming hurricane.

Millage and Budget

During the meeting, the Commission unanimously adopted the Fiscal Year 2024-25 millage rate of 6.7400 mills, a decrease of 0.25 mills from the previous year. Despite the lower rate, the city is projected to see an increase in revenue due to rising property values. Finance Director Diane Wilson noted that the “rolled back” rate, which would generate the same revenue as the previous year, is 6.3802 mills — an increase of 5.639 percent over last year’s rolled-back rate.

The Commission also approved the FY 2024-25 budget, which totals $27,228,237 across all funds, including a General Fund Budget of $7,435,632.

Utility Rate Changes

The Commission approved amendments to customer utility rates for the upcoming fiscal year. Water rates will increase by $3.99 per customer per month, while residential solid waste pickup will see a $3 increase per residential can. Sewer rates will remain unchanged. These changes were discussed in previous workshops and public hearings, with notices sent to customers through their utility bills.

Lot Size Regulations

During a brief discussion regarding setting a minimum lot size, Commissioner Wayne Bloodsworth suggested that the minimum lot size should not be less than 0.25 an acre. Commissioner Tristan Grunder suggested the best way to set the lot size would probably be through the City’s Land Development Regulations.

The City attorney suggested that North Central Florida Regional Planning Council (NCFRPC ) might be able to assist the City since there will have to be changes made to several documents. She said she will contact NCFRPC to see if they are available to assist.

In other business, the Commission also updated the City's personnel policy to include formal guidelines for department head credit card use and a cell phone reimbursement policy for city employees.

High Springs Police Chief Antoine Sheppard presented a new Police Benevolent Association (PBA) contract, which includes a five percent salary increase for police officers. The Commission ratified the contract unanimously.

With a hurricane expected to impact Florida in the coming days, the Commission declared a State of Emergency for High Springs, effective from Sept. 24, 2024, for seven days. This proactive measure ensures no additional meetings are required to respond to the impending storm.

#     #     #

Email cwalker@

alachuatoday.com