New Fiscal Year to Fund ‘Employer of Choice’ Initiative and Police Body Cameras
BARTOW, Fla. – The City of Bartow is setting its sights on the future with the unanimous approval of a new fiscal year budget. On September 15, the Bartow City Commission passed a $135.9 million budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, a plan designed to modernize city operations, invest in infrastructure, and prioritize its employees and public safety. The new budget, which takes effect on October 1, maintains the current millage rate of 6.1080.
A key highlight of the budget is a new “Employer of Choice” initiative, backed by $2.9 million in funding. The program aims to attract and retain talented staff by establishing a minimum wage of $15 per hour for all city positions and providing competitive market pay.
The initiative, a goal of City Manager Mike Herr since 2023, also includes new career ladder systems, pay grades, and updated human resources policies. The budget funds 13 new positions, including a City Engineer and additional personnel for solid waste, electric, wastewater, and fire services.
“We recognize that meaningful growth requires upfront investment in critical areas,” said City Manager Mike Herr. “By investing in people, infrastructure, and community partnerships, we are laying the groundwork for a more resilient, dynamic, and equitable Bartow for today and generations to come.”
In a significant move for public safety, the budget allocates $2.1 million over five years for the purchase of dash and body cameras for the Bartow Police Department. This long-awaited acquisition, a goal of the department for years, is a response to the city’s growing desire for greater transparency and accountability.
The budget also dedicates $66.5 million to a five-year Capital Improvement Plan, with $22.9 million set for the upcoming fiscal year. These funds will support ongoing projects like road resurfacing and park improvements. A $1.35 million allocation is also included for a feasibility study to explore a new central fire station and training facility to replace the current one.
In an effort to improve financial transparency, the new budget document has been enhanced with a new program format. This includes clearer descriptions of city services and dedicated funds for tracking growth-related revenues and capital investments.
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