East Lake Fire Commission Approves Tentative Millage Rate

East Lake Fire Commissioners on Tuesday evening approved a tentative millage rate of 2.0. 

The tentative millage rate is set for advertisement in the TRIM notice that will be released by the Pinellas County Property Appraiser next month.

The tentative millage rate can be lowered during budget hearings, but it can not be raised.

All commissioners except Tom McKone voted to approve the tentative millage rate, which is an increase from the current rate of 1.70. 

Each .01 mil generates $21,990, according to East Lake Fire Rescue documents. 

The fiscal year 2013/2014 budget is tentatively set at $4.2 million. Income at the current millage rate and projected taxable value provides income of just over $3.7 million, which would leave a funding deficit of $500,000, according to the documents.

The maximum millage rate allowed by the East Lake Fire Rescue's charter is 3.75 mils.

The tentative millage rate will most likely be discussed again at upcoming budget hearings.

What do you think about the tentative millage rate? Let us know in the comments section below.

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