Politics
St. Johns County OKs $1.8B budget, an increase of about $50M
While the spending plan increased, property taxes fell by about $9.1M.
One of the fastest-growing counties in Florida now has a budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year that is designed to deal with its growing population.
The St. Johns County Commission approved a $1.8 billion annual budget Tuesday and it’s already in effect. That’s an increase over the previous year’s budget, which was $1.75 billion.
More people are moving into St. Johns County every year. The county now has an estimated population of 346,186 people, which is a 3.91% increase in just the past year, according to World Population Review.
St. Johns County Administrator Joy Andrews said a large portion of the spending plan is geared toward handling that increase in residents.
“This year’s budget delivers historic investments and a property tax reduction, with nearly $5 million in additional Fire Rescue funding to support public safety growth. This is one of the most thoughtful budgets we’ve produced — upholding the Board’s vision by striking the right balance between efficiency and forward-thinking growth,” Andrews said in a news release.
“Our department leadership and budget office worked hand in hand with me to prioritize projects and services that matter most to our community. And for the first time in our history, we made a decision to establish a $20-million Emergency Response Fund to strengthen our independence, agility, and ability to protect our residents and ensure we are ready to help the community recover.”
While the annual budget increased by about $50 million, county officials reduced general fund property taxes by $9.1 million.
Still, local leaders raised Fire Rescue funding by about $4.9 million.
Much of the new funding is directly related to projects needed in response to the growth. Four new fire stations will be built, four new regional parks will be opened and one new library branch will be added.
Another $159 million is set aside for capital improvement projects in St. Johns County. That accounts for new roadways, wastewater plants and other infrastructure additions.
