ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – Orange County commissioners are scheduled to hold the final public hearing and vote on the county’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2026-27.
The proposed budget totals more than $9 billion. It prioritizes public safety, infrastructure, housing, economic development and quality-of-life improvements, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings said.
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More than $1 billion would be allocated to first responders and other public safety services. About 53% of the county’s property tax revenue supports those services.
Potential changes to property tax revenue could create a budget challenge for the county. If Amendment 3 passes in November, Orange County could lose an estimated $165 million in property tax revenue in 2027 and $275 million in 2028, Demings said.
The reduction could force commissioners to make difficult decisions about spending and service levels while seeking other sources of revenue.
Transportation funding is another concern. Since 2019, the purchasing power of each transportation dollar has declined by about 42%, according to the county.
Demings said the cost of building a mile of new roadway has increased 72% since 2019. The cost of resurfacing roads has more than doubled since 2020.
Commissioners are also expected to discuss homelessness and the need for additional affordable housing.
The final public hearing and vote are scheduled for 5 p.m. at the Orange County Administration Center.
