The Fort Pierce City Commission convened on August 11, 2025, for a budget workshop follow-up, focusing on the proposed fiscal year 2026 budget. Finance Director Jonna Morris presented the budget details, emphasizing that the budget remains balanced at $67,787,211, with no changes to revenue from the previous budget.

Morris outlined key changes in expenditure line items, noting that personnel services are set at $38,703,415, reflecting an increase of $1.5 million. This increase includes a 5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for non-bargaining employees and the addition of two new city engineers and one deputy city manager, totaling $279,457. However, the budget also saw the removal of five proposed positions, which accounted for a reduction of $451,000.

To address a previous shortfall of approximately $194,000, Morris indicated that further cuts were made across various line items to avoid utilizing any fund balance. This included reductions in overtime and incentive pay within the police department, which were adjusted based on anticipated needs.

The meeting highlighted the city's commitment to fiscal responsibility while addressing personnel needs and maintaining essential services. The commission will continue to refine the budget in upcoming sessions, ensuring that all financial decisions align with the city's goals and community needs.