State CFO Flags $112 Million in Excess Spending in Manatee County Review

Florida Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia announced Thursday that local governments across the state are spending significantly beyond projected needs, with Manatee County highlighted as one of the most notable examples.

According to Ingoglia, a recent review by his office found that in seven counties — including Manatee — government spending exceeded inflation-and population-adjusted budgets by more than $1.1 billion this year. The data was part of an ongoing effort to evaluate fiscal responsibility at the local level and provide transparency for voters.

Using 2019–2020 as a baseline, Ingoglia’s office compared county general fund budgets adjusted for inflation and population growth. The analysis found that Manatee County’s spending rose by $269 million over five years — a 69% increase — while its population grew by more than 60,000 residents. Ingoglia’s office estimated that the county’s spending equates to roughly $4,300 per person, or about $17,000 for a family of four.

Manatee County officials said they have been working closely with the CFO’s office and the Governor’s Division of Government Efficiency (DOGE) throughout the review process. County spokespersons said they were not aware of the details released by the state but expressed interest in examining the findings and incorporating them into local efficiency efforts.

The county recently formed a citizen-led Government Efficiency Liaison Committee to evaluate spending, streamline operations, and reduce waste. The committee’s next meeting is scheduled for October 28.

Officials said Manatee County remains committed to transparency, accountability, and responsible fiscal management, emphasizing its partnership with the state to ensure taxpayer funds are used efficiently.

Ingoglia said his office plans to continue reviewing additional counties across Florida to identify excessive spending and promote greater accountability in local government budgets.