Today is the 27.02.2026. Sarasota County is facing a significant financial challenge as it seeks to curb government spending to avoid a budget crisis. With a predicted $37.8 million deficit in the general fund by 2029, the county is under pressure to tighten its fiscal belt. This forecast stems from a model created in August 2025, highlighting the need for proactive measures to maintain financial stability. Florida law mandates that counties uphold balanced budgets, which adds urgency to Sarasota’s situation.
The county’s general fund has swelled from nearly $323 million in 2021 to approximately $516 million, largely due to rising property values and increased tax collection. However, the post-pandemic economic boom that boosted these figures is beginning to slow down. In response, County Administrator Jonathan Lewis has proposed limiting spending growth to 1.6% for the next fiscal year and 3.6% for the subsequent three years. These measures are aimed at achieving a balanced budget by 2031.
Budget Constraints and Departmental Impacts
Budget constraints will affect both county commission departments, such as fire services and libraries, as well as constitutional offices including the Sheriff’s Office and the Clerk of Courts. Notably, the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has seen its budget increase by about 67% since 2022, rising from $133.4 million to $223.6 million. Currently, 11% of Sarasota County property taxes are allocated to the Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Kurt Hoffman has expressed a willingness to work within the budgetary limits, pledging not to add new full-time employees and shifting some responsibilities, such as school resource officers, to the Sarasota County School Board.
In a recent statement, Supervisor of Elections Ron Turner noted that his office could meet budget limits for the upcoming fiscal year but raised concerns about the sustainability of this approach in the long run. The county plans to address specific sacrifices required from various departments during summer budget workshops, with constitutional offices expected to present their proposed budgets by June 1.
Exploring New Revenue Options
As part of the ongoing effort to address the budget shortfall, Sarasota County staff are preparing to discuss new tax options at a budget workshop held on February 26. Internal documents reveal a projected $23 million shortfall in the FY2026 budget, prompting discussions around potential revenue-generating measures. Proposed options include a Public Service Tax (PST) of up to 10% on utility bills, which would not appear on property tax notices, and the creation of separate Municipal Services Tax Units (MSTUs) for the Sheriff’s budget and libraries, clearly itemized on property tax bills.
While the PST was previously considered in 2017 but ultimately abandoned due to public opposition, it remains a point of contention. If implemented, a 5% PST could cost residents around $72 annually, while a 10% PST would amount to about $144. Nine other charter counties in Florida currently impose a Public Service Tax. The proposed MSTUs allow for specific funding of services like the Sheriff’s budget, but their impact on taxpayers would depend on whether the general millage is adjusted to offset the new tax.
Looking Ahead
The February 26 workshop will not involve a vote on new taxes, but it is expected to set the tone for the upcoming budget cycle. Key questions for residents revolve around the development of MSTUs, the potential impact of a PST, and how service reductions might unfold if spending growth remains unchecked. As Sarasota County navigates these fiscal challenges, the community will be closely watching how decisions unfold and what sacrifices may lie ahead.
For more information on Sarasota County’s budget challenges and proposed solutions, visit the full article on the Herald Tribune and explore further details in the WUSF article.