City of Cape Coral, FL
07/17/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/17/2024 10:32
City Manager Michael Ilczyszyn Releases Proposed Budget to Address Cape Coral's Growth and Infrastructure Needs
July 17, 2024
Today, City Manager Michael Ilczyszyn released his proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year, setting the standard for community investment and fiscal responsibility. With a budget under $1 billion, Ilczyszyn's proposal emphasizes financial prudence and enhances essential services and infrastructure across Cape Coral.
Lower Property Tax Rate, Higher Value
One feature of the proposed budget is a recommended decrease in the property tax (millage) rate. This reduction illustrates the City's focus on maintaining service levels and fiscal stewardship without compromising quality of life.
The City Manager's proposed budget was developed utilizing a millage rate of 5.3126 for general operations, reducing the millage rate from the prior year (5.3694). The proposed budget allocates over $242 million to General Operations, including critical sectors like Police, Parks, and Transportation. This proposed budget reflects a 10.18% decrease from the previous year, from $1.095 billion to $984.1 million.
Ilczyszyn's proposed budget includes 66 new full-time positions, with 29 funded through the City's General Fund.
Boosting Public Safety and Community Well-being
Enhancements in public safety include substantial additions to the Fire and Police Departments, ensuring our first responders have the resources needed to protect and serve our growing community. Investments in fire station upgrades, additional staffing, and emergency preparedness initiatives underscore the City's proactive approach to public safety.
- North Cape Public Safety Complex (includes Fire Station 10, training/community room, equipment/apparatus area)
- Ten Fire Department positions, including a new rescue unit and a hazmat unit staffing
- Fire Station No. 5 rebuild
- Replace fire station generators
- Twelve Police Department positions, including eight police officers, a 911 operator, and staffing for the Real-Time Crime Center.
Transformative Infrastructure Investments
Additionally, this budget earmarks $3.5 million-the largest amount ever proposed in a single budget year for expanding sidewalks. The budget for paving roadways has nearly doubled, with $11.5 million allocated to this crucial infrastructure improvement.
The budget allocates funds for additional pipe and swale crews to address maintenance needs. It also includes funds for the design of the North Water Reclamation Facility.
Ilczyszyn's budget blueprint prioritizes infrastructure with a comprehensive plan that includes fiber and wireless connectivity upgrades, bridge maintenance, and expansions at key water treatment facilities. These initiatives enhance connectivity and service reliability and bolster environmental sustainability efforts across Cape Coral.
Parks, Recreation, and Environmental Excellence
Recognizing the importance of green spaces and community amenities, Ilczyszyn's proposal includes significant investments in park enhancements and shoreline improvements. One of the most significant investments is the acquisition of the Old Golf Course for public use. The proposed budget includes $10.4 million for the purchase of the Old Golf Course property, an acquisition the City has been working to accomplish for nearly two decades.
For the second year in a row, beautification remains a priority. The proposed budget allocates $1.6 million to beautification projects. These projects aim to enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike, promoting a healthier and more connected community.
The budget also includes funding for the design of a new neighborhood park on NE 15th Street and allocates resources to begin repairing park boardwalks.
Engaging the Community
To ensure transparency and community involvement, the City Council will discuss the proposed budget through a series of workshops starting with a town hall on July 25. Residents are encouraged to attend these sessions in person at the City Council Chambers or tune in via live broadcasts on various platforms, including Comcast Channel 98, Centurylink Channel 94, and YouTube (CapeTV). Along with the public workshops that began in January and continued in June, the City provides multiple resident input and engagement opportunities.
Next Steps
Following the workshops, the City Council will adopt the final version of the budget in September after public hearings scheduled for September 12 and 26 at 5:05 p.m. The proposed budget document is available on the City's official website, providing residents with detailed insights into the City's financial priorities and investments.
- Cape Coral Named Top Emerging Luxury City in America by Architectural Digest; March 2024
- Named 4th Best Places To Live In Florida In 2024 by Forbes Advisor; April 2024
- Cape Coral named second best City for first-time home buyers, by WalletHub; July 2024
For more information on the City Manager's proposed budget and upcoming workshops, please visit CapeCoral.gov.