Margate City Council proposes $255M budget with increased public safety funding

Margate's City Commission has proposed a budget of $255 million for the fiscal year 2026, marking an 11.63% decrease from the previous year's amended budget. This reduction is largely attributed to a significant drop in the Capital Improvement Fund, which decreased by $114 million. However, the budget includes a new allocation of $80 million for water and wastewater bond projects, indicating a strategic shift towards essential infrastructure improvements.

The proposed general fund budget stands at $85.3 million, with a notable increase in revenue from ad valorem taxes, projected to rise by 6.49%. This increase is based on the latest property appraiser numbers, reflecting a growing taxable value in the community. Expenditures are expected to rise by 2.67%, primarily due to increased personnel costs and operational expenses, including a request for $200,000 for technology upgrades.

Public safety remains a top priority, with police and fire departments accounting for 55% of the budget. The police department has requested $656,000 for various capital items, while the fire department seeks $674,000. Investments in technology and safety gear are also included, emphasizing the city's commitment to maintaining a secure environment for residents.

Additionally, the budget outlines several capital projects, including a pedestrian bridge and median beautification efforts aimed at enhancing the city's image. The Parks and Recreation Department has earmarked funds for these initiatives, alongside ongoing discussions about modernizing the city commission chambers.

As Margate moves forward with this budget proposal, the focus remains on balancing essential services with fiscal responsibility, ensuring that the community's needs are met while maintaining a sustainable financial outlook. The commission will continue to refine these plans in upcoming meetings, with the goal of finalizing the budget in the coming months.