South Apopka annexation moves forward despite massive budget projections

APOPKA, Fla. — Apopka commissioners unanimously agreed to advance the proposed annexation of South Apopka toward a possible March 2028 referendum, despite a feasibility study projecting more than $30 million in upfront costs and a $5.6 million annual operating deficit.

Key numbers from the study:

• $30.51 million in estimated capital costs
• $6.87 million in estimated annual service costs
• $1.31 million in projected annual property-tax revenue
• $5.56 million projected annual deficit
• 4,063 additional residents, increasing Apopka’s population by 6%
• 1,235.7 acres, increasing the city’s land area by 5.3%
• 18 additional police officers and 25 Fire Department employees
• A new fire station, police substation, vehicles and equipment