The Brief
- Dunedin is considering deep cuts to firefighting, libraries and parks to prepare for a looming property tax-slashing ballot measure.
- Mayor Maureen Freaney warns that expanding the homestead exemption could cost the city up to $6.2 million annually.
- Local advocates fear the loss of funding will threaten trail maintenance and environmental care at popular sites like Hammock Park.
DUNEDIN, Fla – Dunedin leaders are weighing potential service cuts to the fire department, public parks and libraries as voters prepare to decide on a November ballot initiative that could significantly strip property tax revenue from local governments.
Dunedin budget threats
What we know:
Dunedin Mayor Maureen Freaney said a property tax cut placed on the ballot by the state legislature would severely threaten vital community programs.
The amendment increases the homestead exemption property taxpayers can claim from $50,000 to $150,000 next year, and up to $250,000 in two years. …