OSCEOLA COUNTY, FL — Osceola County officials have proposed keeping the General Fund property tax rate unchanged for the 16th consecutive year as part of the County Manager’s Recommended Fiscal Year 2027 Budget.
County Manager Don Fisher presented the proposed $2.44 billion budget to the Board of County Commissioners, emphasizing fiscal responsibility while continuing to fund essential county services and preparing for possible changes to Florida’s property tax system if Constitutional Amendment 3 is approved by voters in November.
The recommended budget maintains the General Fund millage rate at 6.7 mills, continuing a 16-year streak without increasing the county’s General Fund tax rate.
Officials said the proposal prioritizes public safety, transportation, parks, libraries, courts, and other essential services while preserving financial reserves and limiting long-term spending. The budget also continues the county’s hiring freeze, with exceptions for public safety, public health, and other critical operations, and delays projects that could create significant future operating costs until there is more certainty about future revenues.
According to the county, property values increased by 6.2% over the past year, including approximately $2.2 billion in new construction, reflecting continued growth across Osceola County.
The proposed budget now moves to the Board of County Commissioners for review and public input. Residents will have the opportunity to comment during public hearings scheduled for September 3 and September 21 before commissioners consider final adoption of the FY2027 budget.
SOURCE: OSCEOLA COUNTY GOVERNMENT
