During a recent city commission meeting in Lynn Haven, Florida, officials discussed the tentative millage rate for the 2025 tax roll, ultimately failing to adopt a proposed rate of 4.0500 due to a lack of support. The rollback rate was set at 3.7594, with a proposed increase of 7.72% over this rate.

Commissioners expressed differing opinions on the millage rate, with some advocating for a slight increase to 4.1 to enhance the city’s budget and fund essential projects. Commissioner Ward emphasized the need for additional revenue to support city initiatives, suggesting that a higher millage rate could provide necessary funding. However, other commissioners voiced concerns about raising the rate, arguing that the city should not increase taxes when property values are rising due to new developments.

The discussion highlighted the complexities of budgeting, with city officials noting that maintaining the current rate of 4.0 would result in a loss of approximately $74,549 in revenue. The debate also touched on the potential hiring of a grant writer, which was a significant factor in the proposed increase, as it could help secure additional funding for city projects.

As the meeting progressed, the commission acknowledged the need for further analysis of the budget and the implications of any changes to the millage rate. The city manager was tasked with gathering more data on utility accounts and residential growth to inform future discussions.

The meeting concluded without a resolution on the millage rate, leaving the city’s budgetary direction uncertain as officials prepare for further deliberations.