The Brief
- Florida voters will decide in November whether to expand the state’s homestead property tax exemption.
- If Amendment 3 is approved, the City of Clearwater could lose about $20 million in property tax revenue over two years.
- Tampa Mayor Jane Castor is warning that reduced property tax revenue could mean cuts to police, fire and other city services.
TAMPA, Fla. – Cities and counties across Florida are preparing for possible budget cuts as voters get ready to decide whether to expand the state’s homestead property tax exemption.
What is Amendment 3?
What we know:
Florida voters will decide on Amendment 3 in November, which requires 60% voter approval to pass. If approved, the measure would lower property tax bills for homeowners but significantly strain municipal budgets across the state.
Clearwater impacts
Local perspective:
The City of Clearwater faces a potential loss of $20 million in property tax revenue over the next two years if the measure passes. On Monday, municipal leaders approved the city’s 2027 budget and millage rate while preparing for possible funding reductions.…