Hillsborough Warns $367 Million Tax Hit Could Trigger Layoffs if Florida's $250,000 Exemption Passes
Updated
Updated · FOX 13 Tampa · Jun 17
Hillsborough Warns $367 Million Tax Hit Could Trigger Layoffs if Florida's $250,000 Exemption Passes
1 articles · Updated · FOX 13 Tampa · Jun 17
Summary
Hillsborough County commissioners said a November property-tax amendment could blow a $367 million annual hole in county revenue, putting layoffs, service cuts, wage freezes and higher taxes or fees on the table.
The proposal would raise Florida's homestead exemption from $50,000 to $250,000 over two years and impose tighter limits on how local governments can spend tax revenue.
County officials said parks, libraries, pet resources, children's programs and aging services could face reductions or elimination, while Commissioner Harry Cohen warned public safety could eventually be affected.
Several commissioners from both parties said the measure goes too far, though Commissioner Joshua Wostal urged residents to judge the county's warnings skeptically and weigh the promised homeowner tax relief themselves.
Florida voters must approve the amendment by 60% in November for it to take effect, and it is already facing a lawsuit claiming the plan unconstitutionally favors current residents over newcomers.