2025 Bluffton budget set at $90M; big chunk set aside for parks projects

BLUFFTON, S.C. (WSAV) — On Tuesday evening, the town of Bluffton got the first look at the 2025 fiscal year budget. That plan sits at $90 million, which is around $2 million less than last year’s.

“The town’s budget is the foundation for next year’s work plan,” Town Manager Stephen Steese said. “This fiscal year, the town will open and operate its own Welcome Center, the Bluffton Police Department will replace aging equipment, public projects such as sewer, drainage and streetscapes will be constructed, economic development projects will be implemented and the town will further invest in projects which support affordable housing initiatives.”

A big chunk of the budget will be invested into the Capital Improvements Program: $32 million for stormwater drainage, development projects like Buckwalter Place and affordable housing plans. Also, several parks projects will take up nearly 35% of that money, totaling $11 million.

Some good news for homeowners — property taxes and millage rates will stay the same.

The budget isn’t finalized just yet. Council members approved it on the first reading Tuesday. The final reading is happening on June 11.

“This budget provides for economic development opportunities, continuation of the New Riverside Barn Park, support for watershed management, new projects such as enhancing the New River Trail and continuation of the town’s award-winning Housing Assistance Program which provide necessary repairs to keep homes safe and dry for our residents,” said Mayor Larry Toomer. “We are proud of how tax dollars are put to work to continually enhance our residents’ experience of living in Bluffton.”