City of Newberry Adopts FY 2025–2026 Budget: Lowering Taxes, Investing in Growth, and Building for the Future

At its meeting on September 22, the City of Newberry Commission adopted the Fiscal Year 2025–2026 budget, a balanced financial plan that lowers the property tax rate, funds historic infrastructure projects, and prepares the community for continued growth.

The budget reduces the property tax rate from 5.9000 to 5.8800 mills, while maintaining high-quality services and making long-term investments in the City’s future. With taxable property value increasing 8 percent to nearly $884 million, Newberry is well-positioned to deliver meaningful tax relief while funding critical priorities.

Mayor Tim Marden praised the plan, stating that “We are happy to offer our residents a very fiscally sound approach to government. This budget prioritizes where we have been and where we are going. I commend our Staff and Commission leading by example and making sometimes unpopular decisions because it is the right thing to do in the long run.”

Investing in Infrastructure and Reliability

The FY 2025–2026 budget launches some of the largest capital investments in Newberry’s history. These projects will strengthen the backbone of the City and support residents and businesses for decades to come:

• State Road 26 Twin Pairs Project – A $10 million investment in partnership with FDOT that will rework utilities, improve traffic flow, and transform the look and function of our downtown. By alleviating congestion and modernizing infrastructure along this vital corridor, the project will make it easier for residents to get where they need to go while creating new opportunities for local businesses to thrive.

• Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion – The largest capital project in Newberry’s history, this expansion will more than double capacity to 1.2 million gallons per day. This historic investment ensures Newberry can keep pace with residential growth, welcome new businesses, and strengthen partnerships with surrounding communities. It’s about protecting public health, supporting economic development, and safeguarding the environment for decades to come.

• Elevated Water Storage Tank – A new 500,000-gallon elevated water storage tank, located east of downtown, will provide enhanced fire protection, more consistent water pressure, and improved system reliability. This project ensures that as Newberry grows, families and businesses alike will have dependable access to safe, high-quality water when they need it most.

• Secondary Electric Feed – Today, Newberry’s electric system depends on a single feed along State Road 26, which is already at capacity. By adding a second source of power, the City will reduce the risk of outages, provide additional capacity for future demand, and create a more resilient system that keeps the lights on for homes, schools, and businesses.

• New Utilities & Public Works Operations Center – Located at the Environmental Park, this new facility will give City staff the modern tools, equipment, and workspace they need to serve the community effectively. From repairing roads to maintaining utilities, this investment strengthens the City’s ability to deliver high-quality, reliable services every day.

Investing in Community Assets

Beyond infrastructure, the budget invests in the places that bring residents and visitors together. Champions Park, Newberry’s top tourism driver, will see significant upgrades through Wild Spaces & Public Places funding. Improvements at the Easton Sports Complex, such as new tennis and pickleball courts,  and other recreation facilities, will strengthen Newberry’s reputation as a premier sports and family destination. 

Commitment to Public Safety and Services

To sustain high-quality fire protection, the Commission approved a necessary adjustment to the fire assessment. The budget also includes modest utility rate adjustments, with increases of approximately $5 per month for electricity, $4 for water, and $6 for wastewater for the average household, keeping Newberry’s rates regionally competitive while ensuring reliable systems.

Building for the Future

From roads to utilities to parks, this year’s budget is about more than numbers — it is about preparing Newberry for the growth ahead. With lower taxes, smarter investments, and a commitment to public service, Newberry is laying the foundation for a strong and resilient future.

City Manager Jordan Marlowe emphasized the broader vision by saying, “This budget is more than a financial document. It is a blueprint for growth and resilience, a testament to a Newberry that is strong today and well-prepared for the opportunities of tomorrow.”