ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. – The St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a $1.8 billion budget that includes a property tax reduction and public safety expansion.
Effective Oct. 1, the budget allocates $383 million from property tax revenue to invest in public safety, infrastructure, parks and libraries.
Recommended Videos
“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,” Joy Andrews, St. Johns County Administrator, 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.
Highlights of the 2026 budget include:
- $9.1 million reduction in General Fund property taxes
- $4.9 million increase in Fire Rescue funding to strengthen first responder recruitment and retention
- $20 million Emergency Response Reserve to enhance hurricane and crisis readiness
- Continued construction on the following:
- Four new fire stations (with law enforcement presence)
- Four new regional parks
- One new library branch and two new library hubs
More than $159 million is dedicated to capital improvement projects, including roadways, water and wastewater facilities and critical infrastructure enhancements.
The county launched a new workforce energy efficiency program to lower recurring utility costs. It will also reorganize to improve operations.
“By streamlining operations today and adopting a performance-driven budget platform in the future, we are positioning St. Johns County for long-term financial health and sustainability,” Andrews said.
St. Johns County officials said it has one of the lowest millage rates in Northeast Florida.