Cents & Sensibility Chapter 7

​​With all the discussion happening across Florida about local government budgets, Alachua County is joining the conversation through this series: Cents & Sensibility: Alachua County's Budget in Eight Chapters.

Chapter 7: The Total Budget - Much More Than Property Taxes

At its meeting on Sept. 23, 2025, the Alachua County Commission approved the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) budget, continuing its record of fiscal responsibility while investing in essential services and community priorities. Commissioners adopted a $947 million balanced budget covering public safety, essential services, capital infrastructure and much more.

The total budget amount can understandably raise questions, such as: "If the county has so much money, why are there still unmet needs?" And "Why can't more money go to road repairs, deputies, or social services?"

In reality, the total budget does not equal a large pot of flexible money the county can spend any way it wants. This chapter will explain where the money comes from, what it can be used for, and why most of it is restricted by law, policy, or voter decision.

Read Ch. 7 in full.

Catch up on previous chapters:

Ch. 6: Reserves - Planning for Rainy Days

Ch. 5: Why Budgets Grow Over Time

Ch. 4: Unfunded Mandates

Ch. 3: Understanding Property Taxes

Ch. 2: What is the General Fund?

Ch. 1: Public Influence & the Budget

For more information, contact Alachua County Communications Director Mark Sexton at 352-264-6979 or [email protected].

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