The Venice City Council held a budget workshop on June 19, 2025, to discuss priorities and funding strategies for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting focused on gathering consensus among council members regarding the addition of six firefighter paramedics to the fire service, a proposal that has been deemed necessary by several council members.

During the workshop, council members emphasized the importance of analyzing potential funding sources without increasing the tax rate. One member expressed a clear preference for finding savings within the existing budget rather than resorting to a proposed increase of 0.1 mills. The discussion highlighted the need for the council to provide direction to staff on budget priorities, particularly concerning pension funds and other areas where funds could be reallocated.

The council reached a consensus to direct staff to further analyze the addition of the six firefighter paramedics, indicating a collaborative approach to budget planning. This decision reflects the council's commitment to addressing public safety needs while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

Following the discussion on fire service funding, the council took a break before moving on to police budget considerations. The workshop is part of an ongoing effort to ensure that budget discussions are transparent and inclusive, allowing council members to voice their priorities and concerns in a public forum.