The St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office is requesting a $13.7 million budget increase for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, while county commissioners are recommending an $8 million increase, with both sides working to reach an agreement. Sheriff Richard Del Toro said public safety is often the most expensive responsibility for local governments, with the largest portion of the budget allocated to personnel. The sheriff’s office employs about 800 people. “So, we got to make sure that the salaries are funded, you know, our deputies and professional staff have fallen behind over the years in terms of keeping up with other local agencies and sheriff’s offices, so to remain competitive to recruit and retain, we have to fund these positions,” Del Toro said. He noted that the department made significant progress last year in addressing salary disparities. “We leveled up this organization in a major way where people that were behind in steps got caught up to where they should be, which improves morale,” he said. The sheriff’s proposed budget includes $3 million for patrol vehicles. However, county commissioners are exploring ways to reduce costs. “I want to know how you feel if we were to move forward in privatizing our jail?” Commissioner Cathy Townsend asked. “I think, number one, we can do it better than anybody else can,” Del Toro responded. County leaders also discussed a proposed property tax amendment and its potential impact on the county’s budget if passed. “I am hesitant with some of the increases, and, you know, is there a number that’s lower than what you’re requesting that would be the floor that we could get to be kind of what I’m trying to get to here?” Commissioner James Clasby said. Officials aim to conclude their budget workshops soon, with a tax rate decision expected by July 21.Stay up-to-date: The latest headlines and weather from WPBF 25Get the latest news updates with the WPBF 25 News app. You can download it here.Your neighborhood: Local coverage from WPBF 25 News
ST. LUCIE COUNTY, Fla. —
The St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office is requesting a $13.7 million budget increase for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, while county commissioners are recommending an $8 million increase, with both sides working to reach an agreement.
Sheriff Richard Del Toro said public safety is often the most expensive responsibility for local governments, with the largest portion of the budget allocated to personnel. The sheriff’s office employs about 800 people.
“So, we got to make sure that the salaries are funded, you know, our deputies and professional staff have fallen behind over the years in terms of keeping up with other local agencies and sheriff’s offices, so to remain competitive to recruit and retain, we have to fund these positions,” Del Toro said.
He noted that the department made significant progress last year in addressing salary disparities.
“We leveled up this organization in a major way where people that were behind in steps got caught up to where they should be, which improves morale,” he said.
The sheriff’s proposed budget includes $3 million for patrol vehicles. However, county commissioners are exploring ways to reduce costs.
“I want to know how you feel if we were to move forward in privatizing our jail?” Commissioner Cathy Townsend asked.
“I think, number one, we can do it better than anybody else can,” Del Toro responded.
County leaders also discussed a proposed property tax amendment and its potential impact on the county’s budget if passed.
“I am hesitant with some of the increases, and, you know, is there a number that’s lower than what you’re requesting that would be the floor that we could get to be kind of what I’m trying to get to here?” Commissioner James Clasby said.
Officials aim to conclude their budget workshops soon, with a tax rate decision expected by July 21.
Stay up-to-date: The latest headlines and weather from WPBF 25
Get the latest news updates with the WPBF 25 News app. You can download it here.
Your neighborhood: Local coverage from WPBF 25 News