City of Kissimmee News Release:
KISSIMMEE, Fla. – The Kissimmee City Commission has adopted the City’s Proposed Budget for Fiscal Year 2026, totaling $310.3 million, while keeping the millage rate unchanged at 4.6253 mills.
This marks the 17th consecutive year the City has maintained the same property tax rate, reflecting a continued commitment to financial stability while meeting the needs of a growing community.
This approved budget outlines how the City will fund essential operations and services from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. It comprises various funds, including the General Fund, Stormwater Utility Fund, Sanitation Fund, and Airport Fund. While the General Fund supports most of the City’s daily operations, funded primarily by property taxes and other revenues, some services, such as the Solid Waste Division, are self-sustaining and rely on fees paid by residents and private entities.
Investing in Core Services with Stable Revenue One of the most important components of the City’s budget is the General Fund, which uses property taxes to help fund police and fire services, parks & recreation, street maintenance, finance, economic development, and more.
The millage rate remains at $4.6253 per $1,000 of taxable property value.
The City will collect approximately $31.1 million in property taxes.
Tax dollars are being reinvested to support essential services, infrastructure improvements, and public safety.
City Commission’s Strategic Priorities for FY 2026:
As part of its annual planning, the City Commission identified key strategic priorities to guide the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. These priorities help direct resources to where they are needed most and inform staff’s approach to implementation.
2026 Top Priorities:
• Funding for U.S. Customs at Kissimmee Gateway Airport
• Redevelopment of West Vine Street Retail Parcel
• Direction for Downtown Hotel Development
Fire Funding and Staffing 24/72 Schedule
Securing Tourist Development Tax (TDT) revenue from Osceola County
2026 High Priorities:
Downtown Supermarket and Mixed-Use Development Code Enforcement Enhanced Performance Sun Rail Service and Hours Expansion Collaboration Strategy with Osceola County Arts and Culture in Downtown Expansion Additionally, the newly adopted budget includes 49 new fire positions, the result of a long-term effort to transition the Fire Department to a 24/72 staffing model. Funded by a newly approved fire assessment and reflecting the City’s focus on safety and operational excellence. The budget also adds six new police positions, including officers and sergeants, to meet the City’s increasing public safety needs with dedicated units in the downtown area.
Mayor Jackie Espinosa highlighted the balance between stability and progress. “Kissimmee remains open for business. This budget strengthens our public safety services, supports sustainable growth, and keeps taxes steady for our residents and businesses. We’re continuing to invest in the infrastructure and services that make Kissimmee a strong, resilient, and attractive place to live, work, and invest. Maintaining the same tax rate for 17 years reflects our commitment to responsible growth and smart planning.”
City Manager Mike Steigerwald emphasized the alignment between the adopted budget and the City’s broader strategic plan:
“This year’s budget is a direct reflection of our long-term strategic priorities. We’re managing population growth, addressing rising costs, and continuing to invest in services that ensure a high quality of life for our residents. Financial sustainability is key to delivering consistent service over time, and this budget balances operational needs with careful planning for the future.”
Accessing the Budget:
The City of Kissimmee Finance Department works closely with the City Manager and Commission to develop the annual budget and support long-term financial planning. The Fiscal Year 2026 Operating and Capital Budget, along with a Budget in Brief, is available to the public at kissimmee.gov/budget. These documents provide a clear breakdown of funding sources, expenditures, service priorities, and future planning.
