FY26 Budget Workshop Meeting - June 3, 2025

The Broward County Commission held a budget workshop on June 3, 2025, to review three major budget requests: the Property Appraiser's Office, the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO), and Water and Wastewater Services. The presentations focused on FY26 operating and capital budgets, with discussions on salary adjustments, infrastructure needs, regulatory compliance, and rate impacts.

Property Appraiser's Office

• Presentation: Marty Kerr, Property Appraiser, presented a lean budget request with no new positions or capital requests. The total increase was 3.9%, but the county's share rose 4.2% due to a 0.2% shift. The increase was primarily driven by a 2% cost-of-living adjustment and a 14% hike in group health insurance rates. Without these, the increase would have been about 0.5%.
• Discussion: Commissioner McKinsey discussed property values, and Mr. Kerr reported a 7.12% increase in taxable value and $3.7 billion in new construction. Commissioner Fisher highlighted the deed fraud prevention program, noting its success with about 500 criminal investigations. Commissioner Furr inquired about the new Citrix building, with move-in expected in January 2027.
• Key Outcomes: The commission expressed support for the budget, with many commending the restrained request in a tough fiscal year.

Broward Sheriff's Office

• Presentation: Sheriff Tony outlined major priorities: competitive salaries, a new PSAP (Public Safety Answering Point) facility, enhanced airport security, and increased staffing for the unincorporated area (BMSD). The total budget request increased 9.8% ($79.3 million), including $428 million in capital requests (PSAP $89M, public safety building $179.5M, etc.). The salary study showed BSO deputies are "grossly underpaid" compared to peer agencies.
• Discussion: Sheriff Tony affirmed he will not participate in expanded immigration enforcement. Commissioner Geller raised concerns about data alignment between BSO and county staff and asked for better coordination. Commissioner Udine noted the request was more reasonable than previous years but hoped to keep spending growth near the property value increase (7.12%). Commissioner Fisher supported the PSAP project but wanted to see a five-year plan. Commissioner Bogan praised improvements in dispatch operations. Commissioner McKenzie highlighted recent increased patrol presence in BMSD and requested continued focus.
• Key Outcomes: The commission acknowledged the sheriff's needs but noted fiscal constraints. Staff from BSO and the county will continue working to refine the numbers. No formal votes were taken, but directions were given to explore phasing and to provide more detailed justifications for capital projects.

Water and Wastewater Services

• Presentation: Alan Garcia presented the FY26 operating budget and five-year capital plan. Highlights included: a recommended rate increase of 6% ($4.92 per month for average customer), PFAS treatment (estimated $400M+), septic tank elimination (95% complete by 2027), biosolids disposal solutions, and progress on the C-51 reservoir and reuse water system.
• Discussion: Commissioner McKenzie raised concerns about varying water rates across the county and Fort Lauderdale's high surcharges. Commissioner Geller questioned the long-term rate impact of PFAS treatment (potentially 50% over time) and asked for a detailed analysis. Commissioner Fisher requested that city managers receive direct notification of rate changes. Commissioner Rogers inquired about beautification of water plant facilities and commercial properties still on septic.
• Key Outcomes: The board requested additional analysis on PFAS rate impacts. Garcia agreed to provide more data. The proposed rate increases and capital plan were generally well-received, with commissioners emphasizing affordability and transparency.

Overall Conclusion

The commission recessed with directions for continued staff collaboration. No final votes were taken, but the workshop set the stage for further budget deliberations leading to adoption in the fall.