Parkland Mayor Rich Walker says the city is preparing for possible budget cuts and service changes after Florida voters approved Amendment 3, which increases homestead property tax exemptions beginning in 2028.
In a Facebook statement, Walker said the city has kept its finances in order, including a $2 million reduction to its fiscal year 2027 budget. He said the city will hold a special strategic planning session to measure the amendment’s financial impact and map out the next several years.
The amendment raises the homestead exemption to $150,000 in fiscal year 2028 and $250,000 in fiscal year 2029. The exemption amounts for 2030 and later remain unsettled.
Officials will weigh several cost-saving options at the session, including a hiring freeze, cuts to staff positions and fewer city-sponsored events. The city also plans to look for more sponsorships for events and municipal facilities to offset lost revenue.
Walker said Gov. Ron DeSantis has indicated that the Florida Legislature will produce a plan for homestead exemptions in 2030 and beyond by Jan. 1, 2027. Once that plan is out, the City Commission and staff expect a clearer picture of the city’s long-term outlook.
Walker said the city will keep residents informed as the process moves forward.
