During the recent FY26 Budget Workshop held on July 19, 2025, city officials in Milton, Santa Rosa County, highlighted key achievements and future priorities that underscore the city’s commitment to enhancing public safety, infrastructure, and quality of life for its residents.

City leaders praised the efforts of Joe Cook and his team, emphasizing their vital role in maintaining the city’s operations. Public safety and infrastructure were identified as top priorities, essential for making Milton an attractive place for residents, visitors, and businesses alike. The workshop also celebrated the city’s vibrant community events, such as the Fourth of July River Fest, which drew an estimated 5,000 attendees from across the region, showcasing Milton's ability to foster community spirit.

The Parks and Recreation Department was commended for its extensive offerings, which serve over 2,400 participants this year. Plans are underway to replace the HVAC system in the community center, a necessary investment of $300,000 aimed at improving facility conditions.

The planning department, led by Tim Milstead, reported significant progress in residential and commercial construction, issuing 31 new business licenses in the past year. A new interactive tool is set to launch on the city’s website, allowing residents to easily determine city boundaries and property ownership, addressing a common inquiry from the public.

Financially, the city is in a robust position, boasting 9.3 months of operating capital in its general fund reserve, significantly exceeding policy requirements. This strong fiscal health was attributed to effective management by the finance department, which received a clean audit for the year.

The workshop also addressed improvements in procurement processes following a state audit, with ongoing recruitment for a contract coordinator to manage the increasing number of contracts due to successful grant programs. The city’s public information officer, Bethany Anderson, reported a remarkable increase in social media engagement, with over 2.2 million views in 2025, far surpassing initial goals and positioning Milton’s outreach on par with larger cities.

In conclusion, the FY26 Budget Workshop not only highlighted Milton’s achievements but also set the stage for future initiatives aimed at enhancing community engagement, infrastructure, and public services. As the city moves forward, these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping Milton’s development and ensuring it remains a vibrant place for its residents.