City Council Faces Urgent Calls for Property Tax Reform

During a recent city council meeting in Port Saint Lucie, residents expressed concerns about the local economy and property tax structure. One resident highlighted the rapid population growth in Port Saint Lucie, which has surpassed that of Fort Lauderdale, and urged the council to consider tax cuts to support local businesses. The speaker emphasized that increased customer numbers lead to higher revenues, suggesting that a reduction in taxes could benefit the community.

Another resident, James Reynolds, raised questions regarding the potential for changing the property tax structure in Florida. He inquired whether the city could implement a split-rate tax system, which would assess land and buildings at different rates. The city attorney clarified that any significant changes to the property tax structure would require a constitutional amendment, necessitating a 60% approval from Florida voters. This process is complicated by the fact that long-term residents might face increased taxes, making it challenging to garner the necessary support for such changes.

The council noted that they have successfully lowered the millage rate for nine consecutive years, which has resulted in a decrease in the city's share of the overall tax bill from 24% to 21%. They emphasized their commitment to reducing taxes while navigating the complexities of state regulations.

Residents were encouraged to reach out to their state legislators for further discussions on tax matters, with specific representatives identified for assistance. The meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue between the city council and its constituents regarding fiscal policies and community growth.