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…