Osceola County leaders warn Amendment 3 could force $94.5 million in cuts

Adriana DoriaOSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. —

Osceola County could lose an estimated $94.5 million in annual revenue if voters approve Amendment 3, potentially forcing cuts to public safety, road maintenance, affordable housing and other services, county leaders said Wednesday.

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County Commission Chairman Brandon Arrington addressed the proposed homestead property tax exemption increase during his State of the County address.

“I want to talk about the elephant in the room,” Arrington said. “I am here to share what Osceola County is preparing for and to assure you that whatever voters decide, we will be ready to govern.”

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Amendment 3 would increase the homestead property tax exemption to $250,000 over two years, reducing property tax revenue collected by local governments.

Arrington said passage would cost Osceola County about $79 million from its $410 million general fund. The county would lose another $15.5 million from funding for emergency medical services, libraries and the county’s SAVE program, bringing the estimated total loss to $94.5 million.

“It will just change dramatically the opportunity we’re able to provide to our community,” Arrington said.

County officials have identified $77 million in potential reductions, leaving another $17.5 million in cuts to be determined, according to Arrington.

“We are talking about things like reducing roadway resurfacing and maintenance, reducing funding for affordable housing and homelessness services, limiting future land purchases through SAVE, reducing transportation options, and eliminating programs and grants that residents and community organizations rely on,” he said.

Public safety could also face reductions. Arrington said it accounts for 54% of the county’s general fund.

The county is launching an interactive website to explain Amendment 3 and its potential financial effects. Arrington said the website is intended to give residents access to the county’s projections before they vote.

“This website is actually going to hopefully give them an honest look at what will happen in our community if it does pass,” he said. “I’m not trying to scare people. I just want folks to understand the reality and the truth of what they’re voting for.”