John Scott

Brevard County Budget Workshop

The Budget Workshop commenced with an overview of budget components, focusing initially on general government funding for the 2026 adopted budget. Key discussion points included an analysis of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) over 11 years, noting a projected CPI of 2.63% for fiscal year 2027, which is tied to the charter cap limiting ad valorem revenue growth to 3% or CPI. Comparisons were made between CPI, construction cost index, and municipal cost index trends. The presentation detailed the structure of county revenues and expenses, highlighting that less than 50% of the $2.5 billion budget constitutes new operating revenue, with the remainder carried forward in multi-year capital projects. Fund distribution was reviewed, showing operating revenue allocation across fund groups such as Special Revenue, Enterprise Funds, and General Government. Detailed breakdowns of General Fund revenues, including ad valorem taxes and specific fee revenues, were presented. Expense allocations included funding for charter officers, mandated obligations like Medicaid, reserves set at 10% of operating revenues, and CRA payments. Significant allocations were made to Public Safety (notably EMS due to a new labor contract) and Infrastructure, with noted decreases in funding for Public Works and Parks and Recreation to balance the budget amid public safety investments. General Government operating expenses, including professional services and grants leveraged for state/federal matching funds (e.g., Housing and Transit), were also covered. The session concluded with data regarding homestead exemptions, noting that nearly 50% of parcels have one, and the implications of potential exemption increases on charter cap millage and rollback rate calculations.