Hillsborough County Government Proposes $10 Billion Budget: Enhancements for Fire Rescue and Sheriff’s Services

Hillsborough County government is set to present a proposed budget of approximately $10 billion for the next fiscal year, with significant changes aimed at improving Fire Rescue and sheriff’s department services for residents living in unincorporated areas.

Overview of the Proposed Budget

During a recent presentation, County Administrator Bonnie Wise unveiled the budget plan, highlighting an increase from this year’s $9 billion budget. This budget aims to enhance essential services in response to the growing demands from the community, particularly in public safety.

Key Highlights:

• Total Proposed Budget: $10 billion
• Previous Year’s Budget: $9 billion
• Target Areas for Funding:
  • Fire Rescue services
  • Sheriff’s office

Millage Swap to Benefit Residents

A unique aspect of this budget proposal is the introduction of a "millage swap," which is designed to balance tax revenues while addressing service needs across different regions. Here’s how it works:

• Reduction: Residents in Hillsborough’s three cities—Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City—will experience a reduction of 0.1 mill.
• Increase: Residents in the unincorporated areas will see a 0.1 mill increase, resulting in no net change for them.

Understanding Millage Rates

• What is a Mill?: One mill equates to $1 for every $1,000 of assessed property value. Thus, a 0.1 mill change represents a modest adjustment in property taxes.

This strategic approach allows for reallocating funds specifically intended for unincorporated areas, enhancing public safety services where they are increasingly needed.

Funding Allocation

The budget anticipates important allocations that cater specifically to enhancing public safety and health services:

1. General Fund Property Revenue Adjustments:

   • Reduction of approximately $15.7 million for countywide general fund property revenue.
   • Increase of about $9.4 million directed toward unincorporated area revenue.

2. Investment in Public Safety:

   • Enhancing personnel and facilities for Fire Rescue and the sheriff’s office to improve emergency response times.
3. Utilization of Indigent Care Sales Surtax:
   • $15.7 million allocated for healthcare for Hillsborough County Jail inmates.
   • $5 million designated for Fire Rescue services targeting indigent populations.

Sheriff’s Office Funding

A considerable portion of the budget is dedicated to the sheriff’s office, with an allocated amount of $653 million. This funding will facilitate:

• Improved public safety initiatives.
• Development of infrastructure and resources necessary for law enforcement.

Additional Allocations in the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget

The proposed budget also addresses various community needs, including:

• Expansion of the Hillsborough County Medical Examiner’s Office to manage increased workloads.
• Relocation of the sheriff’s office headquarters from Ybor City to a more centralized location near Brandon.
• Major maintenance projects for the county jail.
• Seed funds for a new pet resources facility.
• Full funding for the Upper Tampa Bay Trail.
• An additional contribution to the African American Arts and Cultural Center.

Upcoming Public Hearings

While the County Commissioners did not take any votes during the initial budget presentation, several public hearings are scheduled:

• July 31: The next public hearing where commissioners may discuss their individual project requests, often known as "flagged" items.
• September 12 & 19: Additional public hearings where the consideration for the final budget adoption is expected.

Residents interested in local governance and community funding initiatives can stay informed through Hillsborough County’s official website.

Conclusion

Hillsborough County’s proposed budget represents a robust effort to enhance essential services and address the needs of its growing community. Through strategic financial adjustments and targeted spending, the county aims to bolster public safety and improve the quality of life for all residents.

For further updates on the budget proposal and public hearings, visit Hillsborough County News.