Charlotte County commissioners will review proposed property tax reform legislation and its potential impact on the county’s budget during a March 17 Debt and Policy workshop.
The discussion is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m., following a 9 a.m. meeting that will include updates on beach renourishment and other projects across the county.
Florida lawmakers have introduced several bills aimed at providing property tax relief for homeowners as property values and tax bills continue to rise
During the last legislative session, the Florida House created a Select Committee on Property Taxes to examine possible reforms. This year, lawmakers have introduced eight proposals that could ultimately appear on the Nov. 3, 2026, ballot.
County briefing materials note that local property tax collections have increased significantly in recent years, prompting complaints from some homeowners who say they are being taxed out of their homes. Supporters of reform argue that reducing property taxes could help address housing affordability challenges.
However, county officials say tax cuts could also reduce a key revenue source used to fund local government services, potentially creating budget shortfalls that counties would need to address through spending cuts or alternative funding sources.
Gov. Ron DeSantis has not yet approved the proposals put forward by the Legislature. Instead, he has criticized the idea of offering voters multiple options on the ballot and has said any tax relief proposal should focus on full-time Florida residents.
A county presentation chart outlines the potential financial impacts of several proposed Florida property tax reform bills on Charlotte County’s budget. Commissioners are scheduled to review the proposals during a March 17 Debt and Policy workshop.
Charlotte County government
The governor also expressed reservations about proposals that would limit tax relief to residents 65 and older, saying such measures would not help newer homeowners.
DeSantis has not yet unveiled his own property tax plan but has indicated he may present one later. If necessary, he could call a special legislative session to address the issue.
Even if property tax relief measures are ultimately approved by voters, some portions of local tax bills would remain unchanged. Taxes dedicated to law enforcement and schools would be exempt from the proposed cuts, meaning property owners would still pay those portions of their bills.
Any approved changes would not affect county finances immediately. The county expects the potential impact of property tax reforms to appear beginning with the fiscal year 2028 budget.
Earlier in the day, commissioners will receive an update on major projects and improvements throughout Charlotte County.
County management consultant Whit Buchanan will provide a presentation outlining progress on several initiatives, including the planned 100,000-square-foot expansion of Sunseeker Resort, as well as renovations to the Riverwalk and Bayshore Live Oak Park. His update will include information on project costs and timelines.
Both meetings will take place at the Charlotte County Administration Center, 18500 Murdock Circle, in Port Charlotte, Room 119.