Property Tax Reform / Amendment 3

Facts

Amendment 3 is on the 2026 general election ballot as a statewide property-tax proposal. If approved, it would increase the homestead exemption for non-school taxes, lower the assessment-growth cap for certain non-homestead property, and restrict how counties and municipalities use ad valorem tax revenue.

Marco Island’s property tax reform information sheet estimates current annual ad valorem revenue above $20 million and an estimated annual revenue loss of approximately $2 million if the homestead exemption amount is increased.

Tradeoffs

Lower property taxes matter, especially for residents on fixed incomes. But reduced City revenue still has consequences. Potential responses could include expenditure reductions, service-level changes, delayed infrastructure work, alternative revenue sources, or higher fees and assessments.

My View

I oppose Amendment 3. I support meaningful property-tax relief, but this proposal shifts costs rather than eliminating them. Marco Island has already reduced its millage substantially, leaving limited budget flexibility and increasing reliance on bonds for infrastructure. Tax relief should be honest about the impact on public safety, infrastructure, water quality, and the services residents expect.

Why Residents Should Care

This issue is not just about a tax bill. It affects how Marco Island funds police and fire protection, road and infrastructure maintenance, parks, code compliance, planning, beaches, and other day-to-day services that shape quality of life.