St Augustine Finance Director Burns presents revenue manual to city commissioners

In the heart of St. Augustine, a city rich in history and community spirit, the recent Special City Commission meeting on July 14, 2025, brought forth pressing discussions that could shape the future of local governance and finances. As the sun streamed through the windows of city hall, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as residents and officials gathered to address key issues affecting their beloved city.

One of the most notable moments came during public comments, where a resident raised concerns about the financial responsibilities of the nearby college. The speaker urged that the institution should contribute through payments in lieu of taxes (PILOTs), arguing that it has benefited from city services without contributing financially for years. This call for accountability highlighted the ongoing debate about the financial obligations of non-profit entities in the community, especially as the college reportedly holds an endowment exceeding $100 million.

Following the public comments, Finance Director Melissa Burns took the floor to present a comprehensive review of the city’s revenue manual. This document serves as a crucial resource, detailing the various revenue sources that sustain St. Augustine's operations. Burns explained the distinction between general fund revenues, which are not tied to specific services, and proprietary funds, which are directly linked to services like water and sewer.

A significant focus of the presentation was on property taxes, with Burns noting that the city’s millage rate of 7.5 mills could generate an additional $1.7 million for the city. She elaborated on how even minor adjustments in the millage rate could have substantial impacts on homeowners, emphasizing the importance of careful financial planning.

The discussion also touched on franchise fees collected from utility providers and the conservative forecasting methods used to predict these revenues. Burns highlighted the intergovernmental revenues received from the state, including revenue sharing and sales tax, which are vital for the city’s budget.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the discussions held in the city hall that day were not just about numbers and budgets; they were about the future of St. Augustine and the shared responsibility of its residents and institutions. The call for the college to contribute financially resonated with many, while the detailed financial insights provided by Burns underscored the importance of transparency and accountability in local governance. As the city moves forward, these conversations will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the community's financial landscape and ensuring that St. Augustine continues to thrive.