There are three amendments on your November 3rd ballot. See this link for an overview.
Of the three, Amendment 3 will have the greatest impact. Amendment 3 will increase the local government homestead credit from $50,000 in 2026 to $150,000 in 2027, and to $250,000 in 2028, with annual inflation increases thereafter. The homestead credit is subtracted from the assessed value of your home before taxes are applied. With passage of Amendment 3, almost all Winter Park owners of homestead property will see a $850 reduction in their combined Winter Park and Orange County property tax in 2027, and a $1,700 reduction in 2028, provided our elected officials do not raise property tax rates.
Winter Park General Fund spending increased by 55% from 2019 through 2026 with no material increase in population. Orange County General Fund spending increased 86% from 2019 through 2026 with a 10% increase in population. These increases compare to cumulative inflation during the period of 26%. The state legislature initiated Amendment 3 to give residents the opportunity to push back on this out of control spending. I believe we should take advantage of the opportunity.
Of course, elected officials are complaining that such tax DECREASES will negatively impact services. I call baloney. Our essential pubic safety, park, and road maintenance services have remained at a high constant level for the past 25 or more years. There is no reason other than a glutenous government for our spending to have increased so dramatically in excess of inflation.
Our elected officials should be pressured to reduce spending, not increase taxes and fees. You can send them that message with your VOTE FOR AMENDMENT 3.