Commissioner Wheeler thanked the citizens of Sugar Foot/Cedar Oaks for the way they have stepped up and voluntarily taxed themselves to maintain the community. It is truly amazing.
Commissioner Prizzia encouraged citizens to participate during the budget development process so that they can have input prior to the budget being approved. She would like to see that for future budget adoption meetings that staff provide more of a presentation to inform the public on how millages are set and the reasons why.
Commissioner Alford advised citizens that Alachua County is very transparent with the budget. On the County website citizens can view every page of the budget as well as every check written. She encouraged them to attend the Citizen's Academy and learn about the county departments and operations and become involved in local government.
Commissioner Cornell stated that if there are 1,600 heirs' properties and 25% are delinquent that seems to be a manageable number to work with. He would like to see staff reach out to these individuals to educate them on available exemptions and the overall process. He also stated that the Library Governing Board voted to lower the millage rate for the library district.
Commissioner Wheeler stated that she would like to see a Tax Workshop to discuss what ability the County does have to reduce the tax burden on citizens.
Chair Chestnut stated that when he first became a Commissioner the County was close to the 10-mil cap. He would like to thank the staff that has put the County in a financial position to lower the millage rate for several years while still providing the services needed.