Pasco County Adopts FY2027 Tentative Budget, Implementing Scheduled Water and Wastewater Rate Hikes

Pasco County Adopts FY2027 Tentative Budget, Implementing Scheduled Water and Wastewater Rate HikesThe Pasco County Board of County Commissioners has advanced a $2.38 billion tentative budget that increases water and wastewater rates per an approved study while holding stormwater assessments steady.

Water and wastewater rates will increase in FY2027 in accordance with a previously approved rate study.

Stormwater assessment rates will remain unchanged for the upcoming fiscal year.

Water and wastewater enterprise reserves are being strategically held to fund infrastructure, support emergency operations, and meet bond covenants.

The Board approved the overall $2.38 billion tentative budget, with a final hearing set for September 22, 2026.

The Pasco County Board of County Commissioners adopted its $2.38 billion tentative budget for fiscal year 2027 on September 9, 2026, locking in utility revenue assumptions for the upcoming year. During the budget presentation, county staff confirmed that water and wastewater rates will increase in FY2027, executing the adjustments mandated by a previously approved rate study. In contrast, stormwater assessments will see no change from the prior year. Staff also outlined the strategic role of the county’s enterprise fund reserves, which encompass the water, wastewater, and solid waste utilities. These reserves are being maintained to cash-fund future infrastructure projects, ensure operational stability during emergencies, and meet bond covenants essential for preserving strong bond ratings. Special revenue reserves, which include the county's stormwater fund, were also detailed as critical for supporting day-to-day operations and covering any unexpected cost overruns during the fiscal year. The Board ultimately voted to adopt the tentative budget resolution. A final public hearing to cement the FY2027 budget is scheduled for September 22, 2026.