County sets tax rate at 7.9 mills

County budget is more than $273 million, with more than $200 of that for infrastructure projects

By WILLIAM SNOWDEN
Editor

Wakulla County commissioners approved a reduced tax rate of 7.9 mills last week, and a budget of more than $273 million.
The tax levy of 7.9 mills is an assessment of $7.9 for each $1,000 of property value. An average $100,000 home in Wakulla County would pay $790 in county property taxes before homestead and other exemptions. That does not include tax levies from other agencies such as the school board, water managment district and other taxing authorities.
Last year’s millage rate was 8.2 mills and the decrease in rate represents about a $30 savings for the owner of a $150,000 home.
Of the county’s budget, the millage rate brings in around $18 million in taxes. Most of the budget, more than $200 million, is state money for infrastructure – such as septic to sewer projects and improvements and expansion of the county’s Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant at Otter Creek.
The county commission had advertised a tentative millage rate of 8.0 mills for the final budget hearing on Monday, Sept. 18. The advertisement meant that the commission could approve a lower rate at the meeting, but could not go higher.
Commissioner Mike Kemp made a motion to reduce the millage to 7.9 and it was seconded by Commissioner Fred Nichols.
During discussion, Commissioner Chuck Hess said he supported a reduction in the Public Service Tax, but  county financial staff expressed concern about fluctuations in what the tax brings in.
The 7.9 mills is a 20.98% increase from the roll back rate of 6.53 mills – which is the millage rate that would bring in the same amount of revenue as last year’s tax levy.
The county went up on other assessments: The Municipal Services Benefit Unit for fire service was increased from $156 per year to $248. Additionally, the county’s base monthly rate for sewer service increased from $39.04 to $40.02, and the charge per thousand increased from $5.86 last year to $6.01.