$2 million shortfall in City budget

Historic City News reporters watched last night’s regular meeting of the St. Augustine City Commission, where approval was given to a tentative millage rate of 7.5 mills.

Although the proposal holds the millage rate to this year’s level, it represents a hard dollar loss of $1.2 million in revenue from next year’s budget.

City Manager John Regan said, “It’s actually a $2 million loss — considering rising expenses.”

The tentative millage rate is set to provide the county with a figure for tax notices and is not yet final.

“Staff has been working hard to close the gap,” Regan said, “through shrinking middle management, incentive retirements, and reduced outside contract services — among other efforts.”

One example given in last night’s meeting, Regan eliminated his former position with his appointment to city manager.

Commissioners will workshop the budget in August, with public hearings in September before a final millage rate can be approved.