Florida voters to weigh in on Amendment 3 and its potential impact on property taxes

Florida voters will decide in November on Amendment 3, a proposal to reduce or eventually eliminate non-school property taxes for some, sparking debate over its potential impact on local budgets and services.

At an Above Board Chamber event Thursday, local leaders discussed how the amendment could affect their communities. Cape Coral officials warned the city could lose up to $28 million in the first year if the measure passes, while Collier County leaders suggested the impact there might be less severe due to higher property values.

"My job as a public servant is to make this work if the voters decide," said Collier County Commissioner Rick Lacastro. "In Collier County, I can say we're prepared, and I know we're in a much better position." He explained that the county over the last several years made budget cuts.

Cape Coral Mayor John Gunter expressed concerns about the city's financial outlook, saying, "We are probably going to have to have different financial philosophies if this passes." He added that the city could ultimately face a $47 million budget cut but assured residents, "The core services, I think public safety and things like that, will be fine." However, he noted, "Parks, we'll have to take a look at those types of projects."

Jeff Kottkamp, CEO of Florida TaxWatch, a watchdog group, addressed misconceptions about the amendment. "Myth #1 is if all this passes, you won't have to pay property tax. That's not accurate because it exempts school funding," he said. Kottkamp estimated that the average homeowner could save "the second year in the neighborhood of probably $500."

Opinions among residents remain mixed. "I'm for it. I've been in the Cape for 27 years," said Eileen Snyder of Cape Coral. Others, like Lori Copko, expressed hesitation, saying, "I'm just concerned." Jane Malinowski added, "I must say the verdict is not out yet."

Amendment 3 will appear on the November ballot, with polls currently showing about 64% of voters in favor of reducing or eliminating property taxes. State law requires 60% voter approval to become law.