Biloxi Raises Property Taxes
Biloxi Council Adopts Tax Increase for Police Funding
The Biloxi City Council approved its fiscal year 2026-27 budget Sept. 15, including the city's first property-tax increase in 33 years, directed toward the police department.
The council voted 4-2, with one abstention, to adopt the budget, which raises the millage rate by one mill. A council member identified during the meeting as Mr. Gray — his full name and ward not yet confirmed against city records — voted against the overall budget but noted the purpose of the increase. "First time in 33 years and it's going to the police department," he said. Councilman Shoemaker also voted against the budget, while Councilman Marshall abstained, citing concerns about the city's reliance on cuts rather than new revenue.
The increase follows a $1.8 million cut to police department funding the previous year, according to the analysis accompanying council discussion. Officials tied the new revenue specifically to police funding after that reduction, a sequence that raises questions about whether the city is planning its budget or reacting to prior shortfalls. The exact millage figure and its dollar impact on typical homeowners have not yet been confirmed.