ORANGE PARK – After originally deciding on a millage rate of 5.8781 in July, the Town Council unanimously approved a resolution to tentatively adopt a reduced millage rate of 5.077 during Tuesday night’s meeting.

The original rate created a higher ceiling to provide more flexibility, but the council determined they could lower it by nearly one mill

The 5-0 vote marked the first time the millage rate was lowered since 2018. The rate will be levied against real and personal property within town limits.

Mayor Randy Anderson said there was just over $35,700 in surplus monies in the town’s budget, allowing the millage rate to be lowered.

In other business, the council approved the County Chamber of Commerce to continue to lease Town Hall office space – but at a cost.

Town Manager Sarah Campbell said rental prices in July surged $1.86 a square foot from last April, according to Economic Summary Reports from the Economic Development Corporation.

Winette Sandlin also supported the increase after calculating square footage rates. Campbell said the Chamber’s rent will result in an annual increase of $2,790 to meet the standard. The new lease will cost the Chamber $36,390.

They unanimously agreed to amend the Chamber’s contract to an 18-month lease that will start on Jan. 1.