Town of Southwest Ranches

The budget workshop covered the fiscal year 2526 budget, highlighting that it is a balanced budget. The budget includes the general fund, fire assessment, and solid waste assessment. It maintains the same mileage rate as the last three years. There is a proposed water assessment increase and a decrease on the average for the agricultural classification. The council discussed a recommendation to utilize a subsidy and its impact on the budget.

The hearing addressed the final millage rate and budget ordinance. Discussions included the commitment of the council to the town, administration, and staff, as well as feedback and guidance provided during one-on-one budget meetings. The final mill rate was presented, noting it has remained consistent for the last four years. The budget adoption included details on funding sources and revenue for the town's main operating fund, with a breakdown of appropriated fund balances for various projects, including zero waste consultant funding. The allocation of funds by function was also reviewed, highlighting operating expenses and public safety expenditures.

The meeting included a proclamation for Hispanic Heritage Month. Council member comments covered announcements for upcoming events, including a Sheridan Road FDOT meeting, Bingo at the Barn, Halloween home judging, a pumpkin patch event, food truck events, a final budget meeting, and a hazmat event. There was discussion regarding pothole complaints and plans to increase repair efforts. The council discussed starting a veterans group. Updates were provided on speed tables on Lurray Road. Concerns were raised about the hurricane season. The council also discussed the approval from the Broward School Board for the South Florida Wildlife Center and an extension for their current location. There was also a discussion on a piece of property that is owned by the town.

The hearing addressed the adoption of the final fire protection assessment rate and solid waste assessment. Discussions included the fire assessment, solid waste rate, and millage rate. The council also considered the budget adoption, focusing on funding sources and expenditures, with public safety identified as a significant driver of operating expenses. A zero waste consultant was also discussed.

The board meeting addressed the approval of the fiscal year 2024 IRS 990 form, which was filed by Konabo Holdings LLC due to the usual firm being unresponsive. Discussions also took place regarding the budget, including a proposal to adjust the salaries of several officers, specifically Lieutenant Petrillo, Captain Garcia, and Battalion Assistant Training Chief Evans. The meeting further touched on the potential hiring of an assistant chief, with a review of the bylaws confirming the admissibility of such a hire, though no immediate decision was required.