TAMARAC, FL – The City of Tamarac is set to introduce a Second Amendment to the Fiscal Year 2024 Operating and Capital Budget, increasing the total budget by $5,431,393, from $259,423,949 to $264,855,342. This amendment will be discussed during the October 23, 2024, City Commission meeting, with a second reading scheduled for November 13, 2024.
The Director of Financial Services has recommended this amendment to reflect changes in funding needs that have arisen since the original budget was adopted. The adjustments address various initiatives and projects previously approved by the City Commission, as well as updates based on newly available information and unforeseen expenditures.
Key Reasons for the Budget Amendment
- Inclusion of Commission-Approved Projects
Certain projects, including the purchase and installation of automated license plate readers and the award of the Water Treatment Plant High Service Pumps and Electrical Upgrades Improvement Project, were approved after the original budget was adopted. This amendment allocates additional funds for these projects, including $543,647 for license plate readers from the State Law Enforcement Trust Fund and $319,601 for the water treatment project, funded by the Utilities Operating Fund and the Utilities Renewal and Replacement Fund. - Capital Improvement Adjustments
The amendment also allocates $1,008,525 to cover principal payments on the 2020 Taxable Capital Improvement Refunding Note, which were not included in the initial budget. This transfer of funds from the General Fund and the Tamarac Village Fund ensures timely payment of debt service obligations. - Support for the Colony West Golf Course
To balance the revenue and expenses incurred by the Colony West Golf Course in FY 2024, the budget includes an increase of $1 million in both operating revenues and operating expenses for the golf course, reflecting the successful operation of this community asset. - Emergency Funding for Water Treatment Plant
An additional $781,592 is allocated for the emergency rehabilitation of the Greenleaf Filter at the Water Treatment Plant, sourced from the Utilities Operating Fund and the Utilities Renewal and Replacement Fund. - Health Insurance Fund
The budget amendment provides $676,835 from net assets to balance the Health Insurance Fund, addressing claims and operating expenses incurred during FY 2024. - Personnel Adjustments
Several personnel changes are included without affecting the overall budget. These adjustments focus on reorganizing the Building Department and the Public Services Department, including the reinstatement and reclassification of key positions, such as the addition of a Chief Mechanical Inspector and the creation of Assistant Building Official roles.
Why the Amendment is Necessary
The amendment reflects the city’s commitment to ensuring sufficient funding for projects that are crucial to the well-being and safety of its residents. Under Florida Statutes Section 166.241(8), the city is allowed to amend its budget at any time during the fiscal year to accommodate changing circumstances or unforeseen expenses, such as new projects or emergency repairs.
The budget adjustments also ensure that projects like the license plate reader system and water treatment plant upgrades continue to move forward without disruption, while also maintaining fiscal responsibility for public services like the Colony West Golf Course.
Next Steps
The amendment will go through its first reading on October 23, 2024, and if approved, a second reading and adoption will occur on November 13, 2024.
For more details, visit the City of Tamarac’s website or contact the Financial Services Department at (954) 597-3620.
