Property owners in Broward County set to benefit from modest tax relief in upcoming fiscal year
Fort lauderdale, Florida – Property owners across Broward County can expect a bit of financial relief next fiscal year, following the County Commission’s approval of a $1.7 billion property tax-supported budget for Fiscal Year 2026. The plan includes a modest reduction in the millage rate, bringing it down to 5.6658 mills, which translates into slightly lower property taxes for many homeowners.
The total countywide budget—covering both property-tax-supported and non-property-tax-supported services—comes to $8.8 billion. This includes funding for major operations such as Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Port Everglades, county utilities, capital projects, and reserves.
Despite major fiscal challenges, including the loss of $80 million in revenue due to the transition to an elected Tax Collector’s Office and the added costs of funding countywide constitutional offices, the Commission managed to approve a balanced budget. To do so, it cut 159 funded positions and reduced recurring operating costs by nearly $20 million across various General Fund agencies.
Major Investment in Public Safety
Even with these cuts, the Broward County Commission prioritized public safety. The budget includes a $24.2 million increase—a 3% bump—to the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) regional budget and 911 services. This funding includes the second installment of an $8 million salary adjustment for BSO Detention Deputies. County officials say this is the largest operating appropriation to public safety in Broward’s history.
“Public safety is a top priority,” officials emphasized, pointing to the continued support for law enforcement, 911 emergency services, and jail operations.
Stronger Reserves and Debt-Free Future
While boosting public safety and managing spending cuts, the county also took steps to increase its emergency reserves. The FY26 budget strengthens funds for emergency preparedness, shelter operations, and cash flow stability, ensuring that Broward can respond to crises like hurricanes and other unexpected events.
Broward County’s strong financial standing further bolstered confidence in the approved plan. Entering FY26, the county has paid off all of its General Obligation debt and continues to hold a “AAA” credit rating from all three major credit rating agencies—a status shared by less than 2% of U.S. counties.
Essential Services Continue Without Interruption
Despite the budget restraints, the county will continue providing a wide range of vital services. These include public transportation, human and veteran services, environmental protection, emergency operations, elder care, libraries, parks and recreation, and animal care and adoption.
County leaders say the budget reflects a balanced approach—investing in safety and resilience while easing tax burdens for residents and maintaining the high-quality public services the community relies on.
For more information about the FY26 budget or Broward County services, residents can visit the official county website.
