Not every elected Republican in the state is openly fielding questions from voters about the property tax amendment on this year’s ballot.
In fact, some GOP leaders have pivoted away from the issue to talk about other items like AI data centers.
But Northwest Florida Republican State Representative Shane Abbott isn’t shying away from the property tax discussion, as he is holding a series of local town hall meetings.
And the state rep has also included some local heavy hitters to participate in the back-and-forth between elected leaders and the public.
Washington County Sheriff Kevin Crews, Chipley Mayor Tracy Andrews, and Washington County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) Chairman David Pettis.
Representative Abbott says he has been addressing misconceptions around the amendment language and pointed out what the amendment would do and not do.
If approved by 60% of voters, the homestead exemption would increase to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028, but school taxes would not be impacted. Additionally, non-homestead property tax increases would be capped at 5%.
Mayor Andrews says any change affecting the City’s revenue would have an impact, but that the City’s approach is to remain alert, informed, and educated, and the Mayor assured local taxpayers that the City will continue to manage its resources responsibly and will be good stewards of taxpayer dollars if the amendment passes.
Sheriff Crews highlighted that he would do everything is his power to work with the Washington BOCC to do the best job he can for the citizens and will continue to provide a high level of service should the amendment pass.
Representative Abbott said if the amendment passes, a Special Session will most likely take place in mid-November to pass implementing legislation.
