Two economic development groups are opposing Amendment 3, raising the alarm that cutting revenue from property taxes could hurt economic efforts at the local level.
The Florida Economic Development Council and the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP) both issued statements denouncing the November ballot measure.
“Amendment 3 would erode the revenue structure supporting Florida counties and municipalities resulting in uncertainty and disrupting the balance of the private-public model that prioritizes investments in transportation infrastructure, place-making, and good jobs with sustainable wages for Florida families,” said the Council’s Executive Director, Beth Cicchetti.
“The Florida Economic Development Council supports thoughtful property tax reform that provides meaningful relief to Florida homeowners while preserving the ability to attract capital and talent and sustain vibrant local economies. Amendment 3, as currently structured, does not strike that balance.”
The OEP, which works to recruit companies to Central Florida to grow the local economy, also warned it was “significantly concerned” with Amendment 3 because of the effects on public safety, transportation, economic growth and affordable housing, said the OEP’s Chief External Affairs Officer, Bob O’Malley.
“While tax reform may be needed at all levels of government, OEP believes the proper forum for policymaking of this magnitude should be through the Florida Legislature, not an amendment to the state’s constitution,” O’Malley said.
The OEP currently receives $793,453 annually from the Orange County government’s general fund.
The growing list of organizations against Amendment 3 includes the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association, Florida Professional Firefighters, the Florida State Fraternal Order of Police, the Florida Sheriffs Association, 1000 Friends of Florida, the Florida Library Association and the League of Women Voters.