What’s In the 2026 City Budget? The Good, the Bad & the Urgent
As your Commissioner, I believe every resident deserves to know how your tax dollars are being used and what kind of future we’re preparing for. The Winter Springs 2026 Proposed Budget offers a clear view into our city’s priorities, and it’s important that we break it down together. Here’s what you need to know.
The Good: Smart Investments with No Tax Increase
Let’s start with what’s working.
The proposed $79.8 million budget for Fiscal Year 2026 holds the line on the millage rate, keeping it steady at 2.6200. That means no local property tax increase, even as we continue investing in critical services and infrastructure.
Some key wins:
- $25.9 million allocated to capital improvements, including:
- Road resurfacing
- Stormwater system repairs
- Police department equipment upgrades
- Park enhancements
- A 15% decrease in crime during 2024, reflecting our ongoing commitment to public safety
- Upgrades to our aging water and wastewater systems, with early-stage planning for new treatment facilities
- Better compensation to retain our talented city employees and reduce turnover costs
These are forward-thinking choices that help protect quality of life today while planning for the city we want tomorrow.
The Bad: Growing Costs, Shrinking Buffers
At the same time, we’re facing some concerning trends.
- The General Fund balance is projected to fall by 14%, and the Enterprise Fund (utilities) by 19%—which limits our emergency flexibility.
- State shared revenues dropped nearly 10%, even as our service demands grow.
- Solid waste costs continue to rise, now at $30.17 per month for households—driven by factors outside our control, but still burdensome for many families.
These aren’t red flags yet, but they’re definitely flashing yellow.
The Ugly: Deferred Fixes That Can’t Wait
Some items in the budget signal urgency, not just concern.
- Stormwater infrastructure remains vastly underfunded. Even with this budget’s investments, we need millions more to resolve long-standing issues.
- Several assessment districts, like Tuscawilla and Oak Forest, are at their funding limits, yet still don’t meet the needs. New rate studies are in progress, but we’re overdue for solutions.
- The budget relies on $1.3 million in one-time General Fund allocations to balance the books, an unsustainable approach in future years.
From My Heart to Yours
“This year’s budget reflects our city’s commitment to responsible growth, environmental stewardship, and fiscal accountability. While we’ve made major strides in infrastructure and safety, we’re also facing real challenges—like shrinking fund balances and rising service costs. That’s why I’m fighting for smarter planning, fairer funding, and transparent solutions that work for all of Winter Springs.”
I’m committed to protecting both our economy and our environment. That means being honest about where we’re headed and making sure residents have a seat at the table as we make important decisions.
If you have questions about the budget or want to weigh in, I encourage you to contact me directly or speak during public comment at our upcoming Commission meetings.
We are in this together—and together, we can build a stronger, smarter Winter Springs.
With appreciation,
Victoria K. Bruce
Winter Springs Commissioner – District 2
“Your purpose will only be found in service to others…”
