Contributed by the City of DeBary
The City of DeBary has secured $3 million in state appropriations in the 2026 Florida budget, providing significant funding for critical infrastructure improvements that will enhance resiliency and improve quality of life for residents. The funding was confirmed upon the Governor’s signature of the budget.
The funding represents another successful legislative session for the City, continuing DeBary's strong track record of advocating for state investment in local priorities. DeBary has successfully had funding projects in every state budget since 2020, but had been vetoed by the Governor in two of the past six years.
The funding includes:
- $2.5 million for Alexander Island, supporting the transformation of the island into a premier public destination featuring recreational amenities, environmental enhancements, and expanded access for residents and visitors. $1.25 million is in direct appropriation and another $1.25 million is in the budget for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
- $500,000 for stormwater improvements, helping the City continue critical infrastructure upgrades that improve drainage, strengthen resiliency, and reduce flooding in vulnerable areas.
"This funding is a tremendous investment in the future of DeBary," said Vice Mayor Phyllis Butlien who worked with legislators in securing the funding. "These appropriations allow us to accelerate projects that have been years in the making while reducing the financial burden on our taxpayers. Every dollar we secure from the state is a dollar that can be invested back into other local priorities. We are grateful to our legislative delegation and the Governor for recognizing the importance of investing in communities like DeBary."
Since 2020, DeBary has consistently worked with state leaders to secure funding for projects that would otherwise take years to complete using local revenues alone. These appropriations allow the City to accelerate critical improvements while preserving local resources for other community priorities. By focusing on obtaining appropriations and grants from state, federal and local sources, DeBary has been able to secure over $23,000,000 in the past six years.
The City also expressed its appreciation to its legislative partners for their continued support throughout the appropriations process.
Shari Grant, the City’s Economic Development, Communications, and Government Affairs director updated the City Council on July 1 with the news. "We are thankful to our legislative delegation, including State Senator Tom Wright and State Representative Richard Gentry, for championing DeBary's priorities during the legislative session," stated Grant. "Their support helps us deliver projects that improve the daily lives of our residents while preparing our community for continued growth."
Construction schedules for both projects will be announced as funding is released and project timelines are finalized.
