Fort White’s town council adjourned a special Wednesday meeting without appointing an interim town clerk to replace Joe Helfenberger, who resigned earlier this month after about three months in the part-time role. Two candidates have been identified but were not ready for consideration, and the council plans to reconvene Monday to continue its search. In the meantime, members unanimously authorized Assistant Town Clerk Kelly MacPherson to process payroll so town employees continue to be paid.
Sources: WCJB TV20
The Gainesville City Commission is scheduled Thursday to establish the maximum millage rate for fiscal year 2027, a ceiling that can be reduced but not raised before the final budget is adopted. Staff recommend holding the rate at approximately 6.7 mills, while rising property values would still push average tax bills more than 5% higher, growing city property tax revenue from $77.5 million to $81.5 million. The interim city manager’s preferred scenario among seven presented would close an estimated $8.6 million General Fund shortfall through a higher fire assessment, $1.4 million in departmental cuts, and tapping $1.2 million in Fleet Fund reserves — without eliminating any filled positions.
Sources: City of Gainesville · WCJB TV20
The county’s proposed FY2027 budget holds the general fund property tax millage at the rollback rate of 7.2107 mills — down from 7.6000 — dedicating more than $343 million to public safety and transportation while maintaining other core services. Separately, a newly opened 69-acre natural area on the western shore of Little Lake Santa Fe near Waldo is now welcoming visitors for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The county’s animal shelter will also host a free pet adoption event on August 8 at its Gainesville facility.
Sources: Alachua County
At its July 14 meeting, the Alachua County Commission directed staff to explore providing financial support to Gainesville Thrives, a local literacy nonprofit. The commission also voted to purchase land near Newberry and Waldo.
Sources: Alachua County · The Independent Florida Alligator
