Florida voters to decide on homestead tax break this November

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WINK)—Florida voters could decide the fate of property taxes this November.

The Senate and House passed the Homestead Tax Exemption, which would increase the tax break for homeowners from $50,000 to $250,000. If 60% of voters say yes, local governments will have to make decisions on how to spend taxpayer dollars.

WINK News spoke with neighbors across Southwest Florida about what this potential break could mean to them. Homeowners in Cape Coral said the thought of a bigger tax break sounds good, but they're concerned about what it could mean for public services.

"At first sight it seems like a great idea, who doesn't want to pay less, right? But at the same time, everything has to be taken in consideration, because with everything that sounds great at first glance, there's always some negatives that come with it," said Gjovani Doci, a Cape Coral homeowner.

The concerns also come from cities, counties and local departments. The Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue District relies heavily on property taxes.

Fire Chief Greg Dewitt said he's concerned about how they'll stay afloat.

"With us not being carved out, it's very discerning. How are we going to make ends meet?" Dewitt said. "We'll lose $8.3 million in two years of revenue that we use to operate the department."

Dewitt said staying afloat means raising taxes. A state senator said it's not just about raising money but about better budgeting at the local level.

"I think we have set aside a tremendous amount of money to backfill any shortages that occur. I know there's been a lot of talk about small counties, but of course, I'm going to be advocating to make sure that our special districts are able to function," the senator said.

Lee County estimates the tax break could cost them about $130 million in the first year. That money typically goes toward things like public safety, parks and transportation.

WINK News reached out to all city and county governments in Southwest Florida and asked them how they're planning ahead if this bill is approved by voters and what other services may be impacted by the tax exemption. WINK News has not heard back yet.

Voters will have the final say on the November ballot. If passed, the Homestead Tax Exemption would go into effect in 2027.