FY 2025 BUDGET BOOK - Flipbook - Page 56
water, sewer, stormwater, and impact fees. Fees need to be implemented that will generate
sufficient revenue to support the City’s essential utility operations. By ensuring an appropriate
and sustainable revenue stream, the City can effectively maintain and enhance utility services
for the benefit of the City’s residents.
➢ The City Manager’s Office is working on a new strategic plan for the City. This is critical for the
City as it continues to grow and develop. A new plan will allow the City to build on its
investments and growth to capitalize on future opportunities. Strategic planning is an
organizational management activity that sets priorities, focuses energy and resources,
strengthens operations, ensures that employees are working toward common goals,
establishes consensus regarding intended outcomes, and assesses and adjusts the City’s
direction in response to an ever-changing environment.
➢ The Public Works Department will begin construction on the Coolidge utility, roads,
stormwater, sewer, and watermain project. This is a multi-phase project that will include
engineering/expansion of the Rosenwald Roads – including Coolidge St from Bates Ave to
Getford Ave and the reconstruction of the east/west roadways from Wall St to Getford St within
these limits. The final project will include stormwater improvements, sidewalks, lighting, new
sewer upgrades, and a new watermain construction to include fire protection.
➢ The Public Works Department has contracted with an independent consultant for a Water and
Sewer Master Plan. The plan will outline and plan capital projects for the City for the next two
decades.
➢ The Community Redevelopment Agency offers a variety of programs: development
incentives for new construction, gateway improvement grants to encourage economic
development and business investments within the City of Eustis.
➢ Economic Development, in partnership with UCFRF (University of Central FL Research
Foundation), and MEGA Workplace has established a Business Incubator. This partnership
offers City-based entrepreneurs a range of development programs and services while
serving as a valuable resource for startup businesses. The Business Incubator’s primary
objectives include supporting the growth of young businesses during their start-up phase,
fostering the establishment of new businesses in specific industry sectors, and promoting
economic diversification in the local area. Ultimately, the Business Incubator endeavors to
create employment opportunities for the residents of the City of Eustis.
Challenges:
➢ Based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the consumer price index remains a significant
concern for the economy during FY 2024/25. In July 2024, the overall consumer price index
reached 2.9%. While not as high as last year’s 4.9% increase, rising prices in essential
commodities such as food, gas, and energy have resulted in higher prices for goods and
services for the City.
➢ The influx of newcomers drawn to Eustis has increased housing demand resulting in pressure
on the City’s housing market. Affordable housing is a concern, as some residents and
newcomers face challenges finding suitable housing options within their budgets. City
leaders are exploring creative solutions to address this issue and strive to ensure that Eustis
remains a place where everyone can find an affordable home.
➢ Another challenge facing the City is striking a delicate balance between growth and
preservation of the City’s historical heritage. While there is a growing need for development
and revitalization, progress must be evaluated and approached cautiously to preserve the
City’s Victorian-era architecture, historic landmarks, and small-town charm that make Eustis
so special. City leaders, in collaboration with the community, are actively engaged in
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