FY 2026 Adopted Budget - Flipbook - Page 59
Priorities and Challenges
Priorities
¾ The Finance Department of the City of Eustis is dedicated to developing a budget that aligns
with the GFOA Budget Award criteria, showcasing the City’s commitment to adhering to
industry-leading practices in budget management. The department has identified the need
to evaluate the City’s current financial software system to enhance its financial operations and
transparency. The evaluation process will begin with a thorough review of the existing software
system to determine if there are capabilities that are being under-utilized. Advancing technology
within the Finance Department will improve efficiency and effectiveness in financial processes,
enabling the department to better serve other City departments and residents.
¾ In FY 2023/24, the City contracted with an independent consultant to conduct a thorough
review of water, sewer, stormwater and other related utility rates. The City’s most current rate study
was conducted in-house and is outdated when taking into consideration the high inflation rates
experienced during the last couple of years. The study aims to determine revised rates for
water, sewer, stormwater, and impact fees. Fees need to be implemented that will generate
sufficient revenue to support the City’s essential utility operations. By ensuring an appropriate
and sustainable revenue stream, the City can effectively maintain and enhance utility services
for the benefit of the City’s residents. The results of the study were available in September
2025, and it is anticipated the new rates will be implements in FY2025/26.
¾ The City Manager’s Office is working on a new strategic plan for the City. This is critical for the
City as it continues to grow and develop. A new plan will allow the City to build on its
investments and growth to capitalize on future opportunities. Strategic planning is an
organizational management activity that sets priorities, focuses energy and resources,
strengthens operations, ensures that employees are working toward common goals,
establishes consensus regarding intended outcomes, and assesses and adjusts the City’s
direction in response to an ever-changing environment.
¾ The Public Works Department began construction on the Coolidge utility, roads, stormwater,
sewer, and watermain project.
This is a multi-phase project that will include
engineering/expansion of the Rosenwald Roads – including Coolidge St from Bates Ave to
Getford Ave and the reconstruction of the east/west roadways from Wall St to Getford St within
these limits. The final project will include stormwater improvements, sidewalks, lighting, new
sewer upgrades, and a new watermain construction to include fire protection.
¾ The Public Works Department has contracted with an independent consultant for a
Stormwater Master Plan. The plan will outline and plan capital projects for the City for the next
two decades.
¾ The Community Redevelopment Agency offers a variety of programs: development
incentives for new construction, gateway improvement grants to encourage economic
development and business investments within the City of Eustis.
¾
Implement the Economic Development Marketing Plan to promote Eustis's business
advantages to attract capital investment, business operations, and corporate expansion,
ultimately stimulating economic growth and prosperity
¾ Economic Development Strategic Priorities
¾ Implementation of the Downtown Master Plan
¾ Strengthen business sustainably and growth in central business district
¾ Promote entrepreneur development through the business incubator
¾ Connect small business with resource support partners
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