For the first time since 2021, the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners has approved a reduction in the property tax rate, though rising property values will ensure that the lower rate will still generate sufficient funds to meet county expenses.
The board unanimously passed the $1.9 billion budget for fiscal year 2026 at a special meeting on Sept. 16.
The budget includes investments in public safety, infrastructure, parks and libraries. Funding is included for four new fire stations (including law enforcement presence), four new regional parks, a new library branch and two new library hubs.
More than $159 million is allocated for capital improvement projects, such as new and expanded roadways, water and wastewater facilities and critical infrastructure enhancements.
“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,” St. Johns County Administrator Joy Andrews said. “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.”
She credited department leadership and the budget office for working with her to prioritize projects and services.
“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,” Andrews added.
The budget also reflects efforts to boost efficiency and sustainability. For instance, a new workforce energy efficiency program launched by the facilities management department has lowered recurring utility costs.
Since fiscal year 2012, the county maintained flat millage rates, but the commission reduced rates during the COVID-19 pandemic to the rolled-back rates. It maintained a flat millage thereafter through 2025.
This year, the proposed rates are about $4.50 for $1,000 of assessed property value for the general fund, 84 cents for the transportation fund, 2 cents for the county health fund and $1.47 for the fire district.
The final aggregate millage rate is $6.76 per $1,000 of assessed property value, an increase of 3.58% over the rolled-back rate. The rolled-back rate is the rate that would generate the same dollar figure as that collected the previous year.
The county’s certified taxable value is $59 billion, which will generate about $399 million in taxes.
For further information on the budget, go to sjcfl.us/2026budget.
