VILLAGE CONNECTION – Village of Estero Welcomes Public Input on Budget

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN

The Village of Estero’s proposed Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget continues significant investment in projects designed to improve quality of life, recreation, mobility and infrastructure throughout the community.

The proposed budget includes approximately $75.9 million for capital projects over the next year as part of the Village’s five-year Capital Improvement Plan.

Major investments include Estero Sports Park Phase 2 ($26.9 million), the Estero Sports Park Driving Range ($5 million), Estero RiverPark improvements ($8.5 million) and River Oaks Preserve ($2.5 million).

 

IMPROVING HOW ESTERO MOVES

Transportation and pedestrian improvements remain an important part of the Village’s long-term plan. Major Projects include a $12.5 million dollar road, bike/pedestrian access, and drainage project on Broadway West, as well as $4 million worth of improvements to the Williams Road/Atlantic Gulf Drive intersection, and River Ranch Road turn lanes and pedestrian crossings.

The five-year plan also includes future shared-use paths, sidewalks and intersection improvements intended to make traveling through Estero safer and more convenient.

 

INVESTING IN INFRASTRUCTURE

The Village continues to address drainage and utility needs as part of its long-term capital planning. The plan includes the $15 million Estero River North Branch Drainage Improvements project, with initial funding programmed for FY 2026-2027.

Utility projects planned for the upcoming year include Phase 1 of Sandy Lane at $5.5 million.

 

RESPONSIBLE FINANCIAL PLANNING

Estero continues to balance significant community investment with responsible financial planning. The proposed General Fund anticipates about $87.4 million in revenues and $81.8 million in expenditures for FY 2026-2027, while maintaining a projected year-end General Fund balance of approximately $24 million.

The Village’s financial policies maintain reserves to protect the community from emergencies, economic fluctuations and unexpected expenses while providing resources to meet Estero’s future needs. At the same time, the Village maintains one of the lowest tax rates among municipalities in Florida.

 

BUDGETING WITH A PURPOSE

Each year, the Village assesses community priorities and aligns them with available resources. The annual process can be summarized as follows:

• Planning and studying
• Capital Improvement Plan adoption
• Performance data review
• Public hearings and budget adoption

Public participation is an important part of the process. Residents are encouraged to learn more about the proposed budget and provide input before its adoption.

 

UPCOMING BUDGET MEETINGS

Sept. 9, at 5:05 p.m. — First public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget and millage rate.

Sept. 23, at 5:05 p.m. — Second public hearing and adoption of the 2026-2027 budget and millage rate.

Residents are encouraged to attend and provide input as Village Council considers the budget and priorities for Estero’s upcoming fiscal year.

There are two options for attending: Live at the Village of Estero Council Chambers at Village Hall, or virtually at www.estero-fl.gov. Virtual comment cards are available on the website, so your voice can be heard.