Manatee County Launches DOGE Committee to Root Out Budget Waste and Improve Spending Efficiency
With government spending under increasing scrutiny nationwide, Manatee County is taking proactive steps to ensure taxpayer dollars are used wisely. This week, county commissioners approved the creation of a Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE committee, to review local government operations and identify potential waste, inefficiencies, and areas for cost savings.
The initiative draws inspiration from a federal model first introduced during the Trump administration. This model focused on exposing waste, fraud, and abuse across federal agencies. According to Commission Chairman George Kruse, Manatee County’s version, however, will take a more measured and analytical approach.
Kruse said the committee’s focus will be on targeted improvements rather than making sweeping cuts, likening it to using a scalpel rather than going “scorched earth.” He emphasized that public concerns about extreme budget slashing, such as eliminating recreational programs or closing beaches, are unfounded.
The DOGE committee will consist of a blend of internal and external members, including Manatee County staff, a representative of the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office, and five citizen volunteers with backgrounds in finance, accounting, or budgeting. Officials say including impartial citizens is critical to offering fresh and honest perspectives on the county’s budget and operations.
Kruse highlighted the importance of this outside insight, noting that it’s sometimes difficult for those within government to evaluate longstanding programs critically. The ultimate goal is to ensure every dollar spent serves a clear and justifiable purpose.
The initiative's urgency is also tied to financial uncertainty stemming from proposed legislation in Tallahassee. Several bills under consideration would expand property tax exemptions, which could result in a significant drop in county revenue. Anticipating these impacts, the county seeks to get ahead of the curve by streamlining its budget before revenue reductions take hold.
The DOGE committee is expected to be assembled and begin work before the county’s summer recess. Their recommendations will be incorporated into the 2026 budget planning process. The committee is initially set to sunset after 12 months, though the board can extend its term depending on its effectiveness and future needs.
By launching the DOGE committee, Manatee County aims to lead by example in fiscal responsibility, showing that smart, strategic oversight can strengthen services and public trust without unnecessary cuts.