Council proposes keeping tax rate steady for 2024-25

The governing board of Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County on Wednesday tentatively agreed to hold the 2024-2025 millage rate steady – keeping last year’s rate of .4908. 
The Council’s ad valorem tax revenue would rise by $13.1 million, allowing it to increase support for Palm Beach County children and families. 
In the upcoming fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1, the Council will continue funding programs that support its mission, so the community’s children are born healthy, grow up with safe and nurturing families, and are ready to learn when they enter school. This upcoming year, the Council also will address issues highlighted by the community, which participated in the organization’s strategic planning process. Some of those areas include expanding funding for basic needs and programs for children and youth ages 6-18. For example, in response to a persistent concern about youth mental health, the Council will increase funding to address this issue. 
“We heard directly from our youth during community conversations that they are struggling to feel safe, connected and successful,” says Lisa Williams-Taylor, CSC’s CEO. “Working with community partners as part of the Birth to 22: United for Brighter Futures Alliance, we’re exploring ways to address our youth’s needs. As a child- and youth-focused organization, we are thankful to have the support of our community and the funding available to address these serious concerns, and help children and their families in so many powerful ways.”
Under the proposed millage rate, a Palm Beach County owner of a single-family home with an assessed property value of $375,000 (with $50,000 in typical exemptions) would pay about $160 in ad valorem taxes to the Council in 2024-2025. 
Total ad valorem taxes to the Council would be $150,108,551. Nearly 93% of the Council’s overall budget would go to support children’s programs and services.
The Council will vote on the final millage rate at 5:01 p.m., Sept. 19, 2024.