PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) — The Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners on Thursday approved the tentative budget for fiscal year 2026, which includes a lower property tax rate.

The $4.9 billion budget tentatively approved by commissioners reduces the general fund property tax rate for the fourth time in five years, according to a news release from the county.

“Despite impacts to property taxes from hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton, the Commission found innovative ways to ease the burden on taxpayers,” the news release said.

The three storms created $1.5 billion in demolition costs countywide and resulted in $6.7 million in lost property tax revenue at the tentative millage rate approved by the board.

Officials said rising fixed costs and inflation also put pressure on county departments.

The tentative budget consists of $3.7 billion for services such as public safety, road and bridge maintenance, county parks and community programs.

The remaining $1.2 billion is dedicated to capital improvements, including investments in transportation and stormwater infrastructure, expanding parks and recreational facilities, beach nourishment, and maintaining and enhancing county buildings and critical assets.

According to officials, the county budget accounts for about one-third of property tax bills for residents. The rest comes from schools, municipalities, and the transit authority, which are not under the scope of the county commissioners.

The commission will hold a second public hearing on Sept. 18 to adopt the final tax rates and budget. The new fiscal year begins Oct. 1.