Dunedin Maintains Millage Rate at 4.1345 Mills for FY 2026

Dunedin has decided to maintain its millage rate at 4.1345 mills for the 10th consecutive year, affirming its commitment to fiscal stability. This decision was unanimously approved during a public hearing held on September 23, 2023, alongside a proposed budget of $156 million for the fiscal year 2026, according to the city’s official communications.

Finance Director Les Tyler highlighted the city’s focus on “sound financial planning and fiscal responsibility.” He noted that this consistent approach has enabled Dunedin to deliver “high-quality services” without imposing additional financial burdens on its residents. The budget allocates $56.8 million to the general fund, which supports essential city services such as police, fire, parks and recreation, and city administration.

Preparation for the budget began in February and involved a series of strategic planning sessions, workshops, and public hearings. The city’s robust Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for the upcoming fiscal year includes 133 projects aimed at enhancing infrastructure, recreational facilities, and community resilience.

Key projects within the approved budget include the Marina Bulkhead Project, which is projected to cost $3.5 million, with 87.5% of the funding expected to be reimbursed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Additional projects anticipated to receive similar support include the $2.3 million Fishing Pier and Day Docks. Other allocations consist of $3.3 million from the Water/Wastewater Fund for utility relocation related to the Florida Department of Transportation’s Curlew Project and $3.1 million from the Stormwater Fund for gabion repair, funded through the Emergency Watershed Protection Grant.

The budget also earmarks $9.1 million from the Community Redevelopment Agency Fund for the Midtown Parking Facility, and an investment of $18.8 million for the Highlander Aquatic Complex, spread across the fiscal years 2026 and 2027. Funding sources for this initiative include the Penny for Pinellas and the General Fund.

Tyler emphasized the city’s financial strategy, stating that the focus remains on “long-term sustainability” and ensuring fiscal stability through proactive, long-range forecasting. He added, “We’re also leveraging grant funding and outside reimbursements wherever possible to ensure that every local dollar is spent efficiently and with purpose.”

The new budget has been effective since October 1, 2023, marking a continued commitment to responsible governance and community service in Dunedin.