The Jacksonville Civic Council, a coalition of about 100 Northeast Florida business leaders, issued a statement on Monday opposing the statewide Amendment 3 property‑tax cut slated for the November ballot. The council warned that the amendment, which would raise the homestead property‑tax exemption from $50,000 to $150,000 in 2027 and to $250,000 in 2028, would sharply reduce services Jacksonville residents rely on every day, including parks, libraries, roads and drainage.
Impact on public safety and budgets
According to the council’s analysis, the tax cut could create a $300 million shortfall in Duval County’s projected property‑tax revenue for the 2027‑28 fiscal year – roughly 30 % of Jacksonville’s pending $2 billion general operating budget for 2026‑27. Police and fire leaders across Florida have voiced concerns that the revenue loss would lengthen response times and hinder recruitment and retention of first‑responders.
“Our analysis supports their conclusion that the proposed amendment could lead to longer police and fire response times and impair our ability to recruit and retain the first responders we rely on to keep our community safe,” the council said.
Local officials split on the amendment
City Council President Hick Howland, a Republican, remains supportive of Amendment 3, arguing that a low‑tax environment helps Jacksonville weather national economic headwinds. “First, I hope it passes, because the affordability crisis is real and immediate tax relief allows families to keep more of their hard‑earned dollars,” Howland said. “Second, that means we have to be responsible for spending. And that’s what this council is doing right now.”
Mayor Donna Deegan, a Democrat, and her allies on the council oppose the measure, warning that the $300 million hit would “take your breath away” when it comes to funding core services such as police and fire protection.
Broader opposition and next steps
The council’s stance adds to a growing chorus of organizations and local governments, including Florida TaxWatch, the Florida Sheriffs Association, and law‑enforcement groups in St. Johns County, that have expressed similar concerns. The Civic Council said it will work with the state’s Taxation and Budget Reform Commission – set to begin next year – to develop a more efficient and fair tax system that balances affordability with the need to protect public safety and vital services.
“We believe thoughtful tax reform can effectively address affordability concerns for residents as well as provide a supportive environment for business growth, while at the same time protecting public safety and vital public services,” the council said.
Background on Amendment 3
If approved by the required 60 % of voters on Nov. 3, Amendment 3 would increase the homestead exemption to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028, reducing the amount of property tax collected by local governments. The measure has sparked a debate across the state between advocates of tax relief and those warning of budget shortfalls for essential services.
Original reporting: Jacksonville Today — read the source article.
