Gov. DeSantis reveals audit of Manatee County Government by Florida DOGE.

BRADENTON, Fla. – Governor Ron DeSantis announced in a news conference on Thursday that Florida’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) will undertake an audit of Manatee County Government’s spending and financial practices.

Joining the governor was Florida Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia, who took office earlier this week.

Ingoglia stated, “You have to ask yourself: Are the taxpayers getting the most bang for their buck? Are local governments actually spending frugally, fiscally, as if it was their money?”

The backstory:

Earlier this year, Florida initiated the DOGE, inspired by similar efforts undertaken by the federal government to combat fraud, waste, and abuse.

At a news conference in Fort Lauderdale on Tuesday, the governor revealed that DOGE audits for additional counties and municipalities would commence on July 31.

A team of auditors and staff from various state agencies will “conduct reviews of data systems, physical premises, and personnel of counties and cities that have thus far refused to cooperate with us to identify and report on any excessive spending patterns.”

DeSantis highlighted the fact that property tax receipts in Manatee County have surged by 86% in recent years, equating to an additional $213 million, despite only a 14% growth within the county itself, pointing out a concerning discrepancy.

On Tuesday, he also announced audits for Broward County and the City of Gainesville, with more expected soon.

What they’re saying:

During the news conference, DeSantis emphasized the burden of rising property taxes on homeowners, noting that Manatee County has increased its reserves by $161 million in the past six years, totaling $734 million.

“We run budget surpluses in Florida. We’ve maxed out the rainy day fund, but there’s also a point where we shouldn’t just be hoarding money. We want to give back to taxpayers,” he asserted.

Commissioner Carol Ann Felts remarked post-conference that the governor’s message aligned with their existing efforts. As a newly elected member, she aims to evaluate county expenses: “This should be everyone’s goal: to ensure tax dollars are collected fairly and used appropriately.”

Ingoglia, known for criticizing wasteful spending, reiterated the need for awareness regarding taxpayer money: “Most governments, most elected officials, view it as not your money. We need to remind them that it’s your money.”

Dig deeper:

A statement from Manatee County Government was released, expressing appreciation for the DOGE initiative and their commitment to fiscal responsibility. They acknowledged ongoing efforts to increase efficiencies and announced the formation of a local Citizen Liaison Committee dedicated to identifying potential improvements.

This committee is expected to be appointed at the upcoming Board of County Commissioners meeting on July 29, 2025.

Manatee County prides itself on responsible budgeting, being noted as one of the least reliant counties on ad-valorem taxes in Florida.

They look forward to continuing collaboration with the Governor’s office to enhance operational efficiency.