Sarasota County issues alert about impending budget shortfalls.

As Sarasota County approaches fiscal year 2028, projections indicate a potential deficit of $25.22 million, a concern highlighted during recent budget discussions among County Commissioners.

With current spending trends expected to persist, along with anticipated declines in property value increases and limits on local budgeting control over certain constitutional officer items, the county faces critical choices: raise property taxes or implement spending cuts.

Commission Chairman Joe Neunder alerted attendees about an impending statewide referendum slated for November 2026 that may propose reducing or eliminating property taxes, urging commissioners to contemplate alternative revenue sources.

Neunder emphasized the importance of preparing for this referendum, stating, “This will be on the ballot, and it would be prudent for us to keep that very top of mind.”

During the commission’s budget workshop, members unanimously approved a modification to the traditional budget schedule to involve constitutional officers earlier, enabling a more informed approach to managing the general fund, which the commission directly oversees.

Freshman Commissioner Tom Knight, who previously served as Sarasota County Sheriff, advocated for these changes, emphasizing the need for early discussions about upcoming budgetary adjustments.

“The future is unknown,” Knight acknowledged, advocating early engagements with constitutional officers regarding their budget expectations.

In preparation for fiscal challenges, the commission has received indications from Sarasota County Tax Collector Mike Moran, who anticipates that the county will not receive the usual $18 million to $20 million in annual remittances, a significant shift from previous expectations.

Projected tax values also contribute to the budget concerns, with final values recently reflecting a modest 5.86% increase, falling short of the anticipated 6.5% growth crucial for planning.

• Fiscal year 2027: 4.3% increase
• Fiscal year 2028: 5.3% increase
• Fiscal year 2029: 6.1% increase
• Fiscal year 2030: 6.3% increase
• Fiscal year 2031: 6.2% increase

CFO Steve Bothello noted, “Moving forward from fiscal years 26 through 30, those estimates may change,” hinting at possible impacts from property tax reform.

Commissioner Teresa Mast expressed her reluctance to consider significant millage rate increases, advocating for a proactive approach in budget discussions. She likened the commissioners’ roles to that of a thermostat, asserting their power to influence the budgetary direction.

Meanwhile, Commissioner Ron Cutsinger, the most experienced among them, cautioned that immediate talks should focus on moderating expenditures rather than daunting cuts.

“We’ve got some cuts coming,” he warned, referring to potential legislative changes that could affect revenues significantly.

Key Information

• Projected Deficit: $25.22 million by fiscal year 2028.
• Budget Constraints: Spending increases and property value deceleration.
• Referendum: A state proposal regarding property tax reform is anticipated in November 2026.
• Tax Collector Funding: Expected reductions in remittances to the county from the Tax Collector’s office.
• Upcoming Budget Workshops: Early engagements with constitutional officers are scheduled.